Iowa Wrestling 174-pounder Patrick Kennedy notched his biggest victory of the season Friday night against #5 Edmond Ruth in the Hawkeyes' dual against Illinois.

Kennedy used a third-period takedown and rideout to earn a 5-1 decision over the Illini standout. The win brings Kennedy to 9-2 on the season.

Highlights from Kennedy's win over Ruth

A top-five win for Patrick Kennedy and @Hawks_Wrestling! 💥

No. 9 at 174 earns the 5-1 decision over No. 3 Edmond Ruth. pic.twitter.com/Cq7zvoFsjm

— Big Ten Wrestling (@B1GWrestling) January 27, 2024

Patrick Kennedy has been in roster battles for the Hawkeyes at both 165 lbs and 174 lbs this season. He lost a bout to All-American teammate Michael Caliendo at 165 lbs earlier this season, and he's also contending with true freshman Gabe Arnold at 174lbs. Arnold already has wins over All-Americans Travis Wittlake and Will Feldkamp.

The Iowa coaching staff will ultimately have to decide whether they plan to use Kennedy up a weight or pull Gabe Arnold's redshirt. That decision remains to be seen, but Kennedy has made a strong case for himself as the starter at 174 lbs.

Kennedy's victory helped the Hawkeyes earn a 36-6 team win. For a complete dual breakdown, check out Kyle Klingman's live blog of the dual.