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Iowa State Cyclones vs Arkansas State Red Wolves Picks and Predictions
No. 14 Iowa State Cyclones look to stay unbeaten as they head south to face the Arkansas State Red Wolves. The Cyclones enter 3-0 after another heart-stopping win over Iowa, while Arkansas State is trying to regroup after a tough loss to Arkansas.
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This is the first time a ranked Big 12 program visits Centennial Bank Stadium, and the Red Wolves are eager to seize the opportunity.
Iowa State: Grit and Defense Leading the Way
The Cyclones may not be flashy, but they’ve been efficient. Last week, Kyle Konrardy drilled a 54-yard field goal with under two minutes left to edge rival Iowa 16-13 — his second straight game-winning kick from that distance in the rivalry.
Quarterback Rocco Becht managed the game well, completing 18 of 27 passes for 134 yards and a TD. The defense set the tone with three sacks and six tackles for loss, holding the Hawkeyes in check.
Iowa State Snapshot
| Category | Stat | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 3-0 | Ranked No. 14 |
| QB Rocco Becht | 134 yds, 1 TD vs Iowa | Game manager role |
| Defense | 3 sacks, 6 TFL | Controlled Iowa |
| Clutch Factor | 54-yd GW FG | 2nd straight year vs Iowa |
Coach Matt Campbell emphasized preparation, even with Saturday’s forecast near 100 degrees: “We’ve been there… we prepared for this.”
Arkansas State: Raynor Must Step Up
Dual-threat quarterback Jaylen Raynor has the tools, but he struggled last week in a 56-14 loss to Arkansas. He finished with 125 passing yards, a TD, and two interceptions, plus just 38 rushing yards on 15 carries.
The Red Wolves’ youth is showing — 14 players have made their first starts this season, including 10 on defense. Mistakes and inconsistency have been costly.
Arkansas State Breakdown
| Category | Stat | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 1-1 | Loss to Arkansas, win vs Memphis |
| QB Jaylen Raynor | 125 yds, 1 TD, 2 INT vs Arkansas | Dual-threat upside |
| Defense | 56 pts allowed vs Arkansas | 10 new starters |
| Coach Butch Jones | Praises opportunity | Says ISU “Top 10 caliber” |
Jones admitted his team lacked discipline against Arkansas: “Our eyes weren’t in the right spots. We have to do a better job coaching and teaching.”
Key Matchup: ISU Defense vs Raynor
Last year, Iowa State thumped Arkansas State 52-7 in Ames. This time, the Red Wolves hope the home crowd and Raynor’s playmaking can keep it closer.
But with the Cyclones’ defense surging and Arkansas State still searching for consistency, the matchup heavily favors the visitors.
Picks and Predictions
- Iowa State’s defense and steady quarterback play make them heavy favorites.
- Arkansas State needs a turnover-free game from Raynor to stay in it.
- The heat could test depth, but the Cyclones have the tools to control the pace.
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