Iowa and Michigan State have parallels that soon will intersect

When Michigan State and Iowa line up at the Big Ten championship game Saturday night, they won't necessarily be staring at their own reflection. But the teams — and programs — do look an awful lot alike.

"We're not identical, but there are probably some parallels between how we do things," Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz said Sunday, adding that Wisconsin probably fits the mold, too. "Some people may not think that's the best way to do things, but (the) programs have had their share of success doing that."

It's no accident that Ferentz alluded to outside criticism in his comments, because both programs are quite familiar with that, too. Iowa (12-0) hasn't been taken seriously all season long because it's played a schedule that didn't include any of the Big Ten East division's heavy hitters. Michigan State (11-1), for years, has been overlooked and underrated, living in the shadow of Michigan and Ohio State despite sustained success under head coach Mark Dantonio.

"We both play with a chip on our shoulders," Spartans wide receiver R.J. Shelton said.

College Football Playoff scenarios for the remaining contenders

Even beyond that, the programs are rife with similarities despite stylistic differences, such as Michigan State's more robust and consistent passing game (the Spartans' passing offense is No. 48 in the FBS, compared to Iowa's 92nd-place standing).

"We're different in a lot of ways; they play a different front defensively than we do," Ferentz said. "But they've played outstanding defense ever since Mark got there. ... They're a real physical team defensively, real tough to run and throw against. I think that's kind of been a cornerstone of their program. They're a physical team offensively. They run the ball very, very well. They throw the ball well, especially right now with Connor Cook at quarterback.

"In theory, that's what we're trying to do, too. We've always felt like defense is really an important thing, and then we've tried to be balanced offensively as well. We've had pretty good success with that this year."

Michigan State might be college football's most confident team

Indeed, Iowa quarterback C.J. Beathard has had a breakout season, and the Hawkeyes have ridden their steady rushing attack to a 12-0 record in the regular season despite temporarily losing leading rusher Jordan Canzeri to injury.

Michigan State has played through its own injuries, particularly to Cook and the offensive line, and both programs expect to be as healthy entering the postseason as they've been in recent weeks. They also expect a tough test from each other.

Spartans tight end Josiah Price said he's watched Iowa on TV a few times, including the Hawkeyes' win against Nebraska on Friday.

"This Iowa team is what you would picture an Iowa team to be — tough-nosed, going to hit you in the mouth, play great defense, run the football, take care of the ball," Price said.

Iowa is Iowa, the 12-0 team America loves to doubt

To Price's last point — so does Michigan State. In fact, both teams are tied atop the Big Ten in turnover margin (+14), always a good indicator of a well-coached, smart team.

"I definitely think us and Iowa are what you think of as your traditional Big Ten teams," Price said. "We run pro-style offenses. We use a fullback. We run the ball heavy first as your motto. I think us and Iowa are pretty similar. It's going to be a classic Big Ten matchup."

GALLERY: AMWAY COACHES POLL