State College, PA — The much-anticipated college wrestling dual meet between the top-ranked Penn State Nittany Lions and the Iowa Hawkeyes is set to captivate fans tonight, January 31, 2025, at the Bryce Jordan Center. The match is scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on the Big Ten Network.
Both teams enter this bout with impressive 9-0 records, setting the stage for what many are calling the biggest wrestling dual of the season. The stakes could not be higher, with over 20 ranked wrestlers expected to take the mat, including four ranked No. 1. The excitement surrounding this dual is palpable, as the outcome could significantly influence rankings and set the tone for postseason competition.
The Hawks, under the leadership of Coach Tom Brands, are eager for victory after losing to the Nittany Lions numerous times recently. Penn State has won the last three meetings and holds the record for the longest dual win streak, aiming for their 66th consecutive victory. “You look forward to this competition,” Brands stated, emphasizing the opportunity for his team to prove themselves.
Historically, Iowa leads the all-time series against Penn State with 28 wins to 13 losses and 2 ties, but the recent trend heavily favors the Nittany Lions, who are widely regarded as the most dominant wrestling program of recent years. Fans recall the fierce rivalry between the two schools, with their first competition taking place back in 1982.
Expectations are high for notable matches throughout the evening, especially the anticipated clash at 184 pounds between Penn State's Carter Starocci (1) and Iowa's Gabe Arnold (5). The banter surrounding this matchup has garnered much attention, following Arnold's bold remarks. He claimed, “This time, we'll be in your home dojo, and I promise…your (Carter Starocci) head is mine. Book it,” setting the stage for what is sure to be an explosive encounter.
Adding to the drama, Arnold will not wrestle Starocci directly, as true freshman Angelo Ferrari will step up for Iowa instead. This decision has ignited fresh speculation on whether Ferrari can match the prowess of the four-time NCAA champion Starocci, who has been dominating the season and winning convincingly by earning bonus points.
Besides the marquee match at 184 pounds, several weigh classes are stuffed with top-tier talent. The 157-pound battle features No. 1 Jacori Teemer of Iowa against No. 3 Tyler Kasak of Penn State, presenting another exciting storyline. Meanwhile, at 174 pounds, the No. 1 ranked Mitchell Mesenbrink of Penn State will take on No. 2 Michael Caliendo of Iowa, allowing both teams to showcase their exceptional skill.
The build-up to this dual has not been without its share of pre-match excitement and commentary. NCAA fans anticipate sagas of upsets and performances shaping championships. Every weight class promises to deliver edge-of-your-seat action, skillful grappling, and the potential for thrilling upsets.
Aside from the individual rivalries, fans are curious about how the dynamics of team competition will play out. The question remains whether Iowa can capitalize on the momentum garnered from their previous matches against lower-ranked opponents or if Penn State's seasoned experience will lead them to another victory.
“Our guys are focused on the dual,” Iowa's coach Tom Brands mentioned, highlighting the preparation his team has undergone leading to this significant moment. The environment is expected to be electric, with all tickets sold out, making for a lively and enthusiastic presence at the Bryce Jordan Center.
The dual is set for broadcast on the Big Ten Network, with fans also able to stream the event live on platforms such as FuboTV and DirecTV Stream. With the pre-match buildup intensifying, fans eagerly await the clash of these wrestling titans. Can Iowa deliver the upset, or will Penn State continue its reign as the top program?
Stay tuned for updates and live coverage of this monumental event right here, as we unravel the drama of wrestling supremacy!