BYU enters Friday's game with a perfect 4-0 record, giving Iowa State little room for error. The Cougars have started the season with wins over Utah Tech, Arizona, Colorado State, and TCU. Their most recent victory came against TCU, where BYU earned a 17-10 road win. The Cougars' ability to win games in different ways has helped them climb into the top 10 nationally.

The Cougars are not only undefeated; they are one of the highest-ranked teams Iowa State is going to have to face this year. BYU moved up to No. 8 in the latest AP Poll after its victory over TCU. The ranking adds even more importance to Friday's matchup because a win over BYU will give the Cyclones huge confident booster and make an instant statement in the Big 12. 

The Cyclones will travel to Provo, Utah, to play at Lavell Edwards Stadium. BYU has already won both of its home games this season, making the environment another challenge for Iowa State. Playing on the road is tough, especially against a team on a hot streak, so Iowa State will need to stay composed and avoid mistakes that could let the Cougars take full control of the game.

BYU and Iowa State are no strangers, having faced each other several times. The Cyclones have had success in the overall series (they lead 5-1), but BYU won the most recent meeting, defeating the Cyclones 41-27 in Ames last year. The Cougars also overcame a 24-10 deficit in that game, showing how quickly they can change the momentum.

Iowa State enters the matchup at 3-2 after defeating West Virginia in a thriller 45-42. Now, the Cyclones have a chance to add on of their biggest win of the season. Beating an undefeated, top-10 BYU team on the road would give Iowa State valuable momentum moving forward. To pul=l off the upset, the Cyclones will need to protect the football, execute offensively and find ways to slow down the cougars.

This game will also test Iowa State's ability to respond to adversity. BYU has shown it can stay composed when games tighten, while the Cyclones have proven they can score quickly and keep pressure on opponents. If Iowa State can establish the run early and keep BYU from controlling the tempo, it could have a big opportunity to upset BYU on the road.

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!