Picks and Predictions for the Cyclones

If you want to get a head start on Cyclone betting this season, check out the picks our team of handicappers put together:

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Iowa State Cyclones History

Founded in 1892, the Iowa State Cyclones football program has experienced a journey marked by perseverance and growth. While early years were challenging, the team steadily built a foundation that would support future successes. The Cyclones’ commitment to development and competitiveness has been a constant theme throughout their history.​

The hiring of head coach Matt Campbell in 2016 marked a turning point for the program. Under his leadership, Iowa State achieved notable milestones, including a historic 9-3 regular-season record in 2020 and an appearance in the Big 12 Championship Game. Campbell’s emphasis on discipline and player development has been instrumental in elevating the team’s performance on the national stage.​ Upgrade to pro-level insights—lock in our premium picks today and tip the scales in your favor.

In recent years, the Cyclones have continued to assert themselves as contenders within the Big 12 Conference. The 2024 season saw Iowa State finish with an impressive 11-3 record, culminating in a thrilling 42-41 victory over Miami (FL) in the Pop-Tarts Bowl . This success has solidified the Cyclones’ reputation as a team capable of competing at the highest levels.​

Iowa State Cyclones Timeline

• 1892: Iowa State fields its first football team.
• 1906: The team adopts the “Cyclones” nickname.
• 1971: Iowa State makes its first bowl appearance in the Sun Bowl.
• 2000: The Cyclones secure their first bowl victory in the Insight.com Bowl.
• 2011: Iowa State upsets #2 Oklahoma State in double overtime.
• 2016: Matt Campbell is hired as head coach.
• 2017: The Cyclones defeat two top-five teams in the same season for the first time.
• 2020: Iowa State reaches the Big 12 Championship Game.
• 2020: The Cyclones win the Fiesta Bowl against Oregon.
• 2023: Iowa State records a 10-3 season, including a bowl victory.
• 2024: The Cyclones finish 11-3 and win the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
• 2025: Iowa State enters the season with high expectations and a strong roster.​
  

Iowa State Cyclones Stats

The 2024 season showcased Iowa State’s balanced performance on both sides of the ball. Offensively, the Cyclones averaged 31.1 points per game, ranking 42nd nationally, and accumulated 421.1 yards per game, placing them 31st. Quarterback Rocco Becht led the passing attack with 3,505 yards, while receiver Jaylin Noel contributed 1,194 receiving yards.

Defensively, Iowa State allowed 22.9 points per game, ranking 41st nationally. The team demonstrated strength in third-down situations, converting 42.33% of their attempts and limiting opponents to a 37.80% conversion rate. However, the defense showed vulnerability in red-zone situations, allowing scores on 87.5% of opponent trips.

Overall, the Cyclones’ statistical profile reflects a team with a potent offense and a defense capable of making key stops, positioning them as a formidable opponent in the Big 12 Conference.​ Stay one step ahead of the bookies—check out our latest college football picks and ride the winners.

Iowa State Cyclones Roster for 2025

The 2025 Cyclones roster features a blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers. Quarterback Rocco Becht returns to lead the offense after a standout 2024 season. The receiving corps is bolstered by transfers Chase Sowell from East Carolina and Xavier Townsend from UCF, adding depth and versatility.

On the offensive line, the team benefits from the presence of Jalen Travis, a 6’7″, 340-pound transfer from Princeton, who brings size and agility to the tackle position . The tight end group, including Ben Brahmer and Tyler Moore, returns to full strength after injuries in the previous season.​

Defensively, the Cyclones are anchored by linebacker Caleb Bacon and defensive back Beau Freyler, both of whom are expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s success. The roster’s depth and experience position Iowa State as a contender in the Big 12.​

Iowa State Cyclones Injury Report

The 2024 season saw the Cyclones contend with injuries, particularly among tight ends Ben Brahmer and Tyler Moore. Their return to health in 2025 is anticipated to enhance the team’s offensive versatility and red-zone efficiency

Before you place a wager on the Cyclones this season, make sure you double check the injury report:

Iowa State Cyclones Betting Outlook and Trends

For sports bettors, the Iowa State Cyclones present several intriguing betting trends that could offer value during the 2025 season. With a consistent coaching philosophy and returning talent on both sides of the ball, the Cyclones are positioned to be a profitable team in specific markets. Below are a few key trends to watch:

Strong Performance as Favorites

In the 2024 season, Iowa State excelled when favored, winning 72.7% of games in which they were expected to come out on top. This trend suggests confidence in the team’s ability to meet oddsmakers’ expectations, making them a reliable pick in favorable matchups. They tend to start fast against lower-tier competition, covering early spreads and forcing opponents into catch-up mode. When playing unranked or mid-tier teams, the Cyclones’ methodical approach often leads to predictable game scripts, which is ideal for pre-game spread bettors.

Balanced Over/Under Outcomes

The Cyclones’ 6-6 over/under record in 2024 shows that totals betting requires situational awareness rather than blind trends. Some games leaned into shootout territory when the offense clicked, while others slowed down due to Iowa State’s defensive strength and time-of-possession game plan. Bettors should pay attention to the opponent’s tempo — faster-paced Big 12 foes like Texas Tech often pushed Iowa State into higher-scoring contests. Against more conservative or defensively focused teams, unders became much more viable thanks to Campbell’s clock-controlling tendencies.

Competitive Against the Spread (ATS)

With a 7-5 ATS record in 2024, the Cyclones proved they could outperform expectations in both conference and non-conference play. Their ability to stay within striking distance, even in losses, gave value to those backing them as underdogs or small favorites. Iowa State is particularly dangerous in trap-game scenarios, where public perception may underestimate their resilience and coaching adjustments. Bettors who analyze coaching mismatches and historical ATS performance under Campbell will likely find strong angles, especially in games where Iowa State is receiving points at home.

Betting Trends from Last Season

Last season, our handicappers identified a few trends for the Cyclones that helped them make better wagers. Here’s what they saw:

• Consistent Home Field Advantage: Iowa State leveraged the atmosphere at Jack Trice Stadium to secure key victories, making home games a focal point for bettors considering moneyline and spread bets.​
• Resilience in Close Games: The Cyclones showcased the ability to perform under pressure, as evidenced by their narrow victory in the Pop-Tarts Bowl . This resilience suggests potential value in live betting scenarios.​
• Impactful Special Teams Play: With players like Xavier Townsend contributing in return roles, special teams played a significant role in field position and scoring opportunities, factors that can influence total points and prop bets.

Key Players for Betting on the Iowa State Cyclones

Betting on player props is a great way to eke out extra value when betting on the NCAAF. The Cyclones have been building a formidable roster, and have a few players worth watching in the next season:

Rocco Becht (QB)

As the offensive leader, Becht’s performance directly impacts the team’s scoring potential. His consistency makes him a focal point for passing yard and touchdown prop bets. He’s shown solid poise under pressure and a willingness to stretch the field, which opens up explosive-play potential for over bettors. When facing softer secondaries, Becht often surpasses projected totals, especially in games where Iowa State is expected to play catch-up or shoot it out.

Jaylin Noel (WR)

Noel’s role as a primary target in the passing game positions him as a strong candidate for receiving yards and reception total bets. His chemistry with Becht enhances his reliability, especially in third-down and red-zone situations. Bettors should monitor injury reports closely, as Noel’s target share spikes when secondary receivers are limited or inactive. He’s also a smart play in anytime touchdown scorer markets, particularly in Big 12 shootouts where passing volume is high.

Chase Sowell (WR)

The addition of Sowell adds depth to the receiving corps and brings big-play ability to Iowa State’s offense. His integration into the offense could present early-season value in prop markets before sportsbooks adjust to his role. Sowell is a deep-threat receiver with the ability to take the top off defenses, making him a strong consideration for longest reception props. As he earns more snaps, look for matchups against inexperienced cornerbacks where he could easily outpace low yardage lines.

Caleb Bacon (LB)

Bacon’s presence on defense contributes to Iowa State’s ability to limit opponent scoring, which can impact under bets and defensive prop markets. He’s a high-motor linebacker with a knack for disrupting plays behind the line of scrimmage. Tackles, sacks, and TFL (tackles for loss) props are all in play here — especially in games where the Cyclones are expected to defend against run-heavy opponents. His impact is also felt on third down, where his pressure can stall drives and limit opposing team scoring.

Xavier Townsend (WR/KR)

Townsend’s dual role on offense and special teams offers opportunities in all-purpose yardage bets and touchdown scorer markets. He’s a dynamic playmaker who can flip field position or break open a game with a single touch. Bettors should especially look at special teams prop markets — such as longest return or special teams touchdown — where his explosiveness is undervalued. He may also become a red-zone gadget player, making him a sneaky value in alt-yardage or 1st touchdown markets.

Iowa State Cyclones Summary

The Iowa State Cyclones continue to emerge as a tough, well-coached program that rewards disciplined betting. With a potent offense led by Rocco Becht, reliable targets like Jaylin Noel, and a defense anchored by playmakers like Caleb Bacon, this is a team that offers opportunities across multiple betting markets. Whether you’re targeting spreads, totals, or player props, the Cyclones provide a range of angles for sharp bettors — especially in high-stakes Big 12 matchups. Dive into our NCAAF previews for all the play-by-play.

Understanding their strengths, tracking injury updates, and identifying favorable trends are key to profiting on Iowa State throughout the season. But even the most knowledgeable bettors benefit from a second opinion. That’s where a premium handicapping service like ScoresandStats.com can elevate your edge. With expert picks, in-depth game analysis, and betting trends delivered straight to your inbox, you’ll have everything you need to bet smarter — not harder.