A Big Ten battle takes center stage tonight as Nebraska hosts Iowa in a pivotal conference dual that could shape the league standings and postseason seeding. With depth across the lineup and several high-impact matchups, this dual promises to be decided by the margins, bonus points, close decisions, and momentum swings from the opening whistle to heavyweight.
Iowa enters the night looking to establish an early tone at the lower and middle weights. 125 pounds features Dean Peterson against Nebraska’s Alan Koehler or Kael Lauridsen in a bout where pace and mat control will be critical. At 133, Drake Ayala meets Jacob Van Dee in a matchup that could generate fireworks and set the emotional tone for the dual. The 141-pound contest between Nasir Bailey and Brock Hardy brings contrasting styles, with Bailey’s explosive offense facing Hardy’s physical, grinding approach.
The heart of the dual may come from 149 to 174 pounds, where team points are often earned in tight decisions. Ryder Block vs. Chance Lamer at 149, Jordan Williams vs. Antrell Taylor at 157, and Michael Caliendo vs. LJ Araujo at 165 all project as bouts that could swing either way. At 174, Patrick Kennedy and Christopher Minto bring strong top games and a history of close matches.
The upper weights add another layer of intrigue. 184 pounds pits Angelo Ferrari against Silas Allred in a clash of strength and athleticism, while 197 features Harvey Ludington and Camden McDanel in a matchup where riding time and late-match execution could prove decisive. The dual closes at 285, where Ben Kueter faces AJ Ferrari, a heavyweight bout that could ultimately seal the team score.
Fans can catch all the action live on the Big Ten Network as two conference powers collide under the lights in Lincoln.
Projected Matchups:
125 lb: Dean Peterson (Iowa) vs Alan Koehler or Kael Lauridsen (Nebraska)
133 lb: Drake Ayala (Iowa) vs Jacob Van Dee (Nebraska)
141 lb: Nasir Bailey (Iowa) vs Brock Hardy (Nebraska)
149 lb: Ryder Block (Iowa) vs Chance Lamer (Nebraska)
157 lb: Jordan Williams (Iowa) vs Antrell Taylor (Nebraska)
165 lb: Michael Caliendo (Iowa) vs LJ Araujo (Nebraska)
174 lb: Patrick Kennedy (Iowa) vs Christopher Minto (Nebraska)
184 lb: Angelo Ferrari (Iowa) vs Silas Allred (Nebraska)
197 lb: Harvey Ludington (Iowa) vs Camden McDanel (Nebraska)
285 lb: Ben Kueter (Iowa) vs AJ Ferrari (Nebraska)
