Iowa St. Cyclones vs
Houston CougarsPredictions & Preview

Iowa State Gears Up for Dominant Performance Against Houston in Big 12 Conference Opener

Houston will host No. 18 Iowa State for a Big 12 Conference matchup on Saturday, Sept. 28. The Cougars, with a 1-3 overall record, will look to bounce back from a tough loss to Cincinnati in their Big 12 opener. Meanwhile, Iowa State, coming off a strong win over Arkansas State, will be playing their first conference game of the season. The kick-off time is set for 7 P.M. EST, with Iowa State opening as the betting favorite at -12.5, and the current line sitting at Iowa State -14.5.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Cyclones -625 | Cougars +455
• Spread: Cyclones -14.5 (-110) | Cougars +14.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 43.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Iowa St. will win straight-up is 86%.

Iowa St. vs Houston Stats

Iowa St. Cyclones

Houston has had a tough start to the season with a record of 1-3. After losses to UNLV and Oklahoma, they secured their first win against Rice but suffered a 34-0 defeat to Cincinnati in their last game. Quarterback Donovan Smith has struggled compared to last year, throwing for just 610 yards and two touchdowns so far. The team also employs a two-quarterback system, with Zeon Chriss seeing playing time as well. Despite their struggles, Joseph Manjack IV has been a standout player with 10 receptions for 146 yards and two touchdowns. On defense, linebacker Michael Batton leads the team with 28 tackles. Coach Willie Fritz plans to continue using both quarterbacks in upcoming games. Houston's offense has struggled, averaging just 13 points per game and ranking 107th in passing and rushing yards. Defensively, they have shown strength in pass defense but have allowed an average of 123 rushing yards per game. The team is 2-2 against the spread this season. Iowa State, with a power ranking of 18, ranks 109th in offense and 19th in defense, with a 3-0 record.

Houston Cougars Analysis

Iowa State has had a strong start to the season, with a 3-0 record and a No. 18 ranking in the nation. They have achieved impressive victories over North Dakota, Iowa, and Arkansas State. The team's offense has been led by quarterback Rocco Becht, who has thrown for 743 yards and six touchdowns so far. The defense has been solid as well, with eight sacks and six turnovers forced. Head coach Matt Campbell praised the potential and talent of upcoming opponent Houston, emphasizing their ability to play elite football.

In terms of statistics, Iowa State is averaging 31 points per game and 264 passing yards per game. On defense, they are allowing only 9.7 points per game and have the fourth best passing defense in the country. Iowa State is 2-1 against the spread this season and has covered as both favorites and underdogs in previous matchups. They have a 0-0 record in their last three matchups against Houston, who currently has a power ranking of 111 and is ranked 118th for offense and 45th for defense. Houston has a 1-3 overall record this season.

Iowa State gears up for dominant performance against Houston in Big 12 Conference opener

Iowa State will be traveling to Houston for their first Big 12 Conference game of the season. The Cyclones are expected to put on a dominant performance against the Cougars. Iowa State showcased a strong ability to move the ball efficiently in their recent game against Arkansas State, as well as deliver a solid defensive performance. Particularly, Iowa State's defensive and offensive lines are anticipated to pose a significant challenge for Houston, whose quarterbacks have struggled with protection. Additionally, Iowa State's well-coached defense, allowing only 9.7 points per game, is well-equipped to handle Houston's dual quarterback system. With their strong control of the clock and overall superior performance, Iowa State is projected to emerge victorious against a struggling Houston team. Based on these factors, it is advisable to select Iowa State to cover in this matchup.

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