Top 10 Most Memorable Ohio State vs Iowa Football Moments That Changed the Game
Sports
The Ohio State Buckeyes and Iowa Hawkeyes have delivered some of the most thrilling moments in Big Ten football history. From stunning upsets to championship-deciding games, this rivalry has produced unforgettable memories that still resonate with fans today.
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1. Iowa's 2017 Stunning 55-24 Upset Victory
Iowa shocked the college football world by dismantling #6 Ohio State 55-24 in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes dominated in every phase, forcing turnovers and controlling the game against a highly-ranked Buckeye team that had championship aspirations.
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2. Archie Griffin's Record-Breaking Performance (1974)
Ohio State's legendary running back Archie Griffin put on a clinic against Iowa, rushing for 246 yards in a dominant victory. This performance was crucial in Griffin's march toward becoming the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history.
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3. The 2009 Overtime Thriller
In a back-and-forth battle, Ohio State edged Iowa 27-24 in overtime in Columbus. The game featured multiple lead changes and clutch performances from both teams, with the Buckeyes ultimately prevailing in front of a raucous home crowd.
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4. Iowa's Goal Line Stand Defense (2010)
The Hawkeyes' defense made a legendary goal line stand, stopping Ohio State four consecutive times from inside the 5-yard line to preserve a crucial victory. This defensive effort exemplified Iowa's tough, physical brand of football under Kirk Ferentz.
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5. J.T. Barrett's Four Touchdown Performance (2016)
Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett threw for three touchdowns and ran for another in a commanding 38-14 victory over Iowa. Barrett's dual-threat ability was on full display as the Buckeyes dominated both through the air and on the ground.
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6. The Kinnick Stadium Night Game Atmosphere (2017)
The electric atmosphere at Kinnick Stadium during Iowa's upset victory created one of the most intimidating environments in college football. The combination of a blackout crowd and perfect execution by the Hawkeyes made this game unforgettable for Iowa fans.
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7. Chuck Long's Heisman Campaign Game (1985)
Iowa quarterback Chuck Long put on a spectacular performance against Ohio State during his Heisman Trophy runner-up season. Long's precision passing and leadership helped establish Iowa as a legitimate national contender in the mid-1980s.
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8. The Snow Bowl Slugfest (1992)
Played in brutal winter conditions, both teams struggled to move the ball consistently in a low-scoring affair that Ohio State won 16-9. The game became a testament to Midwest football toughness, with both defenses dominating in the harsh weather.
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9. Ezekiel Elliott's Breakout Game (2014)
Future NFL star Ezekiel Elliott announced his arrival on the national stage with a dominant rushing performance against Iowa's typically stout defense. Elliott's power running style and big-play ability helped propel Ohio State toward their national championship run.
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10. The 2019 Defensive Battle
In a game that showcased both teams' defensive prowess, Ohio State narrowly defeated Iowa 26-20 in a hard-fought contest. The game featured multiple turnovers, defensive stops, and exemplified the physical nature of Big Ten football at its finest.
These memorable moments between Ohio State and Iowa showcase why this Big Ten rivalry continues to captivate fans. Whether it's stunning upsets, individual brilliance, or defensive showcases, these games remind us why college football remains so unpredictable and exciting.