The Cyclones aim to revitalize their vertical attack against a struggling Falcons secondary. Analyze the spread and total as Iowa State seeks a dominant bounce-back performance.
Following their loss to Iowa in the Cy-Hawk rivalry, the Iowa State Cyclones (1-1) will play the struggling Bowling Green Falcons (0-2), on Sept. 19 (11 a.m., ESPNU) at Jack Trice Stadium. Iowa State hopes to strengthen its offensive performance, with a particular focus on its passing game, when facing Bowling Green's weak secondary. This game is looked to be classified as a "tune-up" for the Cyclones prior to the match against No.17 Utah in Big 12 action.
Now, although this game is looked to as a “tune-up” for the Cyclone, some of you may want to make it interesting, so it's time for us to release our personal betting predictions.
*All betting lines courtesy of DraftKings. Call 1-800-BETS OFF if you live in Iowa (1-800-MY-RESET is the national line) and are struggling with gambling.
Spread: Iowa State -23.5
I always say to take the easy money when you can. If you saw my prediction for this game, you know I think Bowling Green has some talent on both offense and defense. Still, I believe the Cyclones are simply a step above the Falcons in both talent and coaching. That’s why I don’t think this game will be close. I recommend picking the heavily favored Cyclones.
Total: Over 43.5
Iowa State's defense made this more of a toss-up than expected. After hearing Cyclones offensive coordinator Tyler Roehl talk about the passing game, expect the ball to be in the air a lot against the Falcons this week. This game is considered a get-right game for the Cyclones. I expect them to use it to fix their biggest offensive issue so far this season: the passing game, specifically the deep ball. Expect a lot of deep shots to these receivers. With the Falcons allowing 38.0 PPG and having issues in the secondary, expect points to be put up when those shots are taken.
Other Picks
Jaylen Raynor Anytime TD: Complementary football at its best, the passing game should open up running lanes for this dual-threat quarterback to use his legs on multiple occasions, especially in the red zone.
Iowa State: Team Total Touchdowns Over 4.5: Again, the Falcons give up 38.0 PPG. The Cyclones are looking to put the ball in the air and into the end zone. With quarterback Jaylen Raynor's history of deep-ball throws from his time at Arkansas State, I expect many chunk plays and scoring opportunities.
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