Iowa State's road to a surprising bowl game appearance in year one of the Jimmy Rogers era doesn't get any easier. 

The Cyclones (3-2, 1-1) will head west for a matchup against the high-flying, eighth-ranked Brigham Young Cougars (4-0, 2-0) on Friday evening. 

We'll have plenty of preview content to come here on Iowa State Roundtable before the game, but in the meantime, here are my three and a half early thoughts ahead of this intriguing clash in Provo, Utah: 

Iowa State's success could start with its ability to win the battle up front. Establishing control on both sides of the ball would let the Cyclones create running lanes, protect the quarterback, and make things difficult for the opposing offense. The team will need to be physical from the opening snap and avoid letting opponents dictate the pace.

Every offense has a playmaker that can change the game with one play. Iowa State will need to identify that player - quarterback Bear Bachmeier and running back LJ Martin are likely Cougar candidates - and make sure he doesn't get the opportunity to take over. Whether or not it comes through the passing game or on the ground, limiting explosive plays should be the main priority for the Cyclones.

Turnovers can completely change a game in a snap, especially in a competitive matchup. Iowa State needs to value every possession and avoid putting its defense in a tough spot they could have to dig themselves out of. Because of the offensive decisions, ball security will be the main priority. If the Cyclones can minimize mistakes, they can give themselves more opportunities to control the game.

Moving the ball efficiently is only part of the equation. The Cyclones have to finish drives when they get into the red zone or make sure the team comes away with points; every opportunity matters. A missed chance could become costly if the game comes down to a possession or two.

Iowa State doesn't need to dominate every aspect of the game. But if the Cyclones can execute in these four areas, they will put themselves in a strong position to secure the victory.

The final stretch of the game could come down to who is more disciplined and executes better. Iowa State cannot afford to lose focus when the pressure increases. Covering on third down can be huge for the offense, and field positioning and strong communication could become important when it comes down to the wire. If the Cyclones stay composed, avoid mental mistakes, and stick to their game plan, they can give themselves a chance to finish strong. The goal is simple: play hard-nosed football, take advantage of any opportunity that comes their way, and if they can execute, BYU can come back from their first loss.

Every snap could ultimately make a difference in this game. The Cyclones will need to stay composed and trust their game plan.

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HawkeyeRoundtable publisher Brad Schultz has covered the Iowa Hawkeyes since 2023. To send him story ideas, scoops, or criticize his writing, reach him at [email protected]