Game Preview Iowa State @ Oklahoma State
The Iowa State Cyclones travel to Stillwater aiming to cap off their regular season with a third straight win when they face the Oklahoma State Cowboys on Saturday. Bowl positioning is on the line for Iowa State, while Oklahoma State is looking to snap a 10-game losing streak and end a difficult campaign on a high note.
Iowa State (7-4, 4-4 Big 12) enters with momentum after back-to-back wins over TCU and Kansas. The Cyclones have seen their offense come to life behind quarterback Rocco Becht and a potent ground game led by Carson Hansen and Abu Sama III.
Oklahoma State (1-10, 0-8 Big 12) has lost all of its conference games but has shown improved competitiveness over the past two weeks, dropping close contests to Kansas State (14-6) and UCF (17-14).
Want more game breakdowns like this? Visit our college football picks section for more matchups.
Odds and Key Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Spread | Iowa State -11.5 |
| Moneyline | Iowa State -420 / Oklahoma State +320 |
| Total (O/U) | 43.0 |
| Location | Boone Pickens Stadium, OK |
| Time & Date | Saturday, Nov. 30, 3:30 PM ET |
| TV Coverage | ESPN2 |
Check real-time line movement and totals at the NCAAF odds page.
Iowa State Outlook
The Cyclones have turned a midseason slump into late-season success thanks to a revived offensive identity. Quarterback Rocco Becht has shown better command of the offense, throwing for three touchdowns last week, including two to Brett Eskildsen.
The running back duo of Carson Hansen (841 yards) and Abu Sama III (645 yards) continues to thrive behind a physical offensive line. Both backs are averaging over 5.0 yards per carry, giving Iowa State the ability to control the clock and wear down defenses.
Defensively, Iowa State is allowing just 21.1 points per game and has been strong on third downs, forcing punts on 42% of opponent possessions. That advantage should be crucial against a struggling Oklahoma State offense.
Use these insights alongside our sports betting for beginners guide to make smarter plays.
Oklahoma State Outlook
It’s been a lost season for the Cowboys, who haven’t won a Big 12 game in 2025. However, they’ve been much more competitive lately. Close losses to Kansas State and UCF have shown flashes of a capable squad.
Zane Flores has taken over quarterback duties, passing and rushing for a touchdown last week. His development offers hope for the offense, but inconsistency in protection and a lack of big plays continue to hamper progress.
The defense, led by tackle Aden Kelley, has struggled to hold up against physical run teams—something Iowa State will test all day. Opponents are rushing for nearly 190 yards per game against the Cowboys.
Looking for value in low-scoring games? Read about alternate total points strategies.
Key Matchup Table
| Matchup | Edge |
|---|---|
| Rushing Offense | Iowa State |
| Passing Accuracy | Iowa State |
| Turnover Margin | Even |
| Red Zone Defense | Iowa State |
| Motivation Factor | Iowa State |
| Home Field Advantage | Oklahoma State |
Betting Trends
- Iowa State is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games.
- Oklahoma State is 1-9 ATS in its last 10.
- The total has gone under in 4 of Iowa State’s last 6 games.
- Oklahoma State has scored fewer than 20 points in 7 of its last 9 games.
- Iowa State has covered 3 straight road games.
- The underdog is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
- Iowa State is 6-1 ATS as a favorite this season.
- Oklahoma State is 0-6 ATS in home games this year.
- Iowa State has outgained 4 of its last 5 opponents.
Want to build a parlay for this matchup? Learn how with our parlay betting guide.
Prediction
Iowa State has too much firepower and physicality in the trenches for Oklahoma State to handle. The Cowboys may keep it competitive early, but Iowa State’s balanced attack and superior defensive line should take over by the second half.
With Flores still gaining experience and the run defense underperforming, the Cyclones should control time of possession and pull away late.
Projected Score: Iowa State 30, Oklahoma State 13
Spread Pick: Iowa State -11.5
Total Lean: Under 43.0
Find more expert predictions in our NCAAF picks section.
Why You Need Expert Picks
With one team surging and another limping to the finish line, Iowa State vs Oklahoma State may seem straightforward—but motivation, senior day emotions, and backup QBs can flip outcomes fast. Expert picks provide sharper edges when the intangibles matter most.
Check the updated Handicappers Leaderboard to see who’s dominating recent slates, and sharpen your strategy with these betting resources:
- Winning Margin Explained
- What is a Teaser Bet?
- Live Betting Strategies
- Responsible Gambling Tips
- How to Bet on College Football


