Iowa State (2-2) enters Saturday's game against West Virginia (3-1) in as close to a must-win situation as you can get in the month of October. 

There's still a lot of football left to play, but if you look at the Cyclones' upcoming schedule, it feels like Jimmy Rogers' group needs a victory if it wants to have any chance of making a surprise bowl game appearance. 

Iowa State showed plenty of fight against No. 15 Utah last weekend, but a strong second half couldn't make up for a poor first half, and the 'Clones fell, 31-17. 

Now, Iowa State has the chance to reset at home.

West Virginia comes to Ames for Iowa State's homecoming game for a morning showdown at Jack Trice Stadium (11:00 a.m., TNT), allowing Iowa State another potential chance to establish themselves early in conference play. Iowa State will need to be sharper from start to finish that comes from both sides of the ball.

Senior quarterback Jaylen Raynor will be an important piece of the equation. The ability he has to extend plays and create opportunities with his strong throwing arm and his legs could give the Cyclone's offense some spark. After scoring just three points in the first half against Utah, Iowa State will need find it's rhythm real fast to get the crowd into it.

Playing at Jack Trice Stadium will boost the team. The Cyclones have already picked up home wins against Southeast Missouri and Bowling Green this season and the homecoming atmosphere should give the Cyclones another opportunity to feed off the home crowd. 

West Virginia should not be overlooked, but Iowa State has enough firepower to make this a competitive Big 12 matchup. If the Cyclones can avoid another sluggish opening quarter and turn their offensive opportunities into points, they should have a chance to control the game.

This matchup could come down to which team protect the football and makes the bigger plays in the fourth quarter. Iowa State cannot afford another slow opening act, especially against as West Virginia offense that is capable of piling up points quickly.

I expect Iowa State to come out with more determination after last week's loss. Raynor and the offense should find their rhythm, while the defense makes enough late plays to protect a close home win. 

It may not be a runaway victory. Instead, expect a game that will be tense deep into the fourth quarter before Iowa State makes just enough plays to defend its home turf.

The Cylones have the chance to turn the page on Saturday. Now they have to finish the story.

Don't miss out on our Roundtable community and the latest news! It's completely FREE to join.

Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members in the community section! Download the FREE Roundtable APP and stay even more connected!

Click here to join the fun and potentially win some FREE Cyclone swag!