Iowa vs Iowa State - Predictions

When Iowa State has the ball:
The Cyclones will use the tempo to try and wear down the Hawkeyes, they will try to go fast pace to not allow the Iowa defense to substitute and try to create mis-matches that way.  They will be in shotgun most of the game and probably deploy three wide sets most of the game.  That means that most of the game, Iowa will only have 6 men in the box.  Iowa State has several talented receivers, however, most of them struggle with consistency.  They have a very talented tight end in Collin Franklin who had five catches last week.  Alexander Robinson last week showed why he is on the Doak Walker watch list with his 63 yard touchdown run last week, but only got 34 yards on his other 18 carries.  If Iowa's defensive front seven can handle the run and force Austin Arnaud into third and long passing situations, it spells trouble for the senior quarterback.  If the Clones can stay in third and manageable situations, it will cause the defensive front four to honor the run or pass and slow them down. 

When Iowa has the ball:
Iowa has to control the line of scrimmage.  If they can create seams for the running backs to get through, it will cause the Iowa State safeties and linebackers to come downhill on the run harder and create opportunities in the play-action pass game.  Iowa's receivers have a distinct advantage against Iowa State's secondary, David Sims didn't play last week and this week they will be without Ter'Ran Benton, one of their starting cornerbacks.  Look for Iowa to establish the short pass game to soften up the Cyclone defense and come back with runs and play action deep balls.

What will happen:
Iowa will undoubtedly take the ball on the opening kickoff and if they score right away, it puts a lot of pressure on the Iowa State offense right away.  Iowa's defense is one that you do not want to be trying to mount a comeback against.  If Iowa can get a 10 or 14 point lead, it could spell game over for Iowa State.  Austin Arnaud was harassed last week by a Northern Illinois defense that wouldn't even be backups on the Iowa squad.  Look for the Hawkeyes to dominate the first half and take the wind out of the Iowa State sails with a ball control offense that eats up the clock. 

Prediction:
Iowa - 34
ISU - 6

Arnaud will throw another three interceptions
Jewel Hampton returns with 125 and a score
The Hawkeye defense holds Alexander Robinson to less than 60 yards
The Streak will be extended to 18 quarters
Iowa will tally 5+ sacks
Colin Sandeman grabs a TD and 100+ yards receiving
McNutt and DJK both have 5 catches
Mahoney misses 2+ field goals
Stanzi throws for 275 and three scores