The thing that is exciting though from an Iowa fans perspective is this.
Iowa is 14-13 (6-8) right now. I know this is a dangerous game to play, but just for a second, assume Iowa pulls out the PSU game and doesn't blow their double digit lead against Nebraska, and beats Campbell.
That moves them to 17-10 (8-6). Still a horrible RPI, but should at least be in the discussion...that's the light at the end of the tunnel that is starting to show up.
That said, it's still just as easy to play what if Wisconsin shoots better than 3% from 3 and so on, but they've definitely improve (plus 2 could have won games with Purdue).
I think as the team matures it's reasonable to expect that home game vs Campbell or Nebby to be in their back pocket at this point and not the anchor dragging them down right now.
When is the last time you could reverse Iowa's fortunes in 2 or 3 games and have a hypothetical case for the bubble. I know it means nothing in reality, but it is encouraging after some of the worst season's in Iowa history.
Plus, the game next year will have a little more spice with ISU coming off an NCAA appearance and an Iowa team that should at least have legit NIT hopes. A lot of freshmen to hope for the bubble next year, but not impossible...still think 13-14 is the year for the big step.