This may be the most important game of the year for the Cyclones. It could determine the momentum for the entire season.
If they lose the game, winning at home against Iowa next week or on the road at Toledo the following week would seem very unlikely. The Cyclones then face the toughest stretch on their schedule: at Nebraska, at Texas Tech, and Texas and Oklahoma at home.
If they win the game and gain confidence, wins against Iowa and Toledo seem more likely. I would also feel better going into the Big 12 Conference games if the Cyclones had a few wins under their belt.
I really see this game as a coin toss.
Iowa State must win the battle up front. Kent State dominated the Cyclones in the second half on both sides of the ball. UNI has more size and experience on both sides of the line. ISU has more athleticism and depth.
Prediction:
Iowa State 31 Northern Iowa 27
Passing
Meyer 18-26, 294 yards, 2 TD
Bates 2-3, 37 yards
Rushing
Bass 20-139-1 TD
Robinson 8-46
Scales 4-14-1 TD
Bates 2-17
Meyer 4-10
Receiving
Blythe 5-121-1 TD
Franklin 2-84-1 TD
Sumrall 6-56
Hamilton 2-33
Robinson 3-18
Catlett 1-12
Barkema 1-7
Interceptions
Allen Bell 1
Fumble Recoveries
Chris Weir 1
Ace Bowen 1
