Well regardless of the who, what, where, and when of predictions and prognostications:
The whole match hinges on our 4 still 'arguably' unproven newcomers. Beau, SVN, Levi and Alex.
Sure 0-4 is an unlikely possibility, but most sane connoiseurs of our sport should see a 2-2 most likely which should guarantee the match, short some crazy bonus scenarios. I lean 3-1, while if Iowa comes in our house tight and nervous from TnTs relentless no fun approach, 4-0 is not an absurdity.
Their performance in this dual still may have little bearing on how far they go in March, as each remains on their early career, mid-season upward trajectory.
Why would anyone think Cael's success with these 4 is less than countless 'waves' in the past (Willie?).
Then again this prediction is curiously un-Willie like.
I am seeing a vision of a two men sitting in a dark corner of a pub somewhere whispering over a beer. One says to the other, these young guns are a little too over confident at this stage in their development. They are starting to believe their own headlines. I need them mentally heading into the Iowa match as underdogs. The smaller bald man says to the larger, 'consider it done my good friend'.