We've certainly played, and beaten, better teams than Iowa has even seen this year. But I never quite understood the experience factor. I mean, I understand it when experience is synonymous with development (i.e. QBs with more games under their belt are more prepared for different situations), but not in such vague situations.
All of Iowa's games are televised, and are watched across the nation. Media spotlight also doesn't mean the same thing to these players as it does to you and me. When a camera is shoved in their faces, they don't know how many people are going to see that video. They have had those cameras in their faces their entire careers, the only difference is the side they can't see.
Even the idea that players will behave differently in big games (high pressure) probably misses the fact that all of these players have played in big games before. Nearly everyone on these teams were superstars in high school playing for championships. Iowa has faced two ranked teams already and has been carrying the burden of being undefeated for several weeks. And I believe (can't find the article) that even statistically, experience has almost no correlation to winning or losing when compared to actual team strength or health.
Experience might help, but I think the fact that our team has beaten better opponents says a lot more. I'm hoping MSU is prepared and motivated for this game like they have been for Oregon, UM, and OSU. Anything less, and Iowa IS good enough to win.
