Oklahoma State vs. Iowa State: Game Preview, Notes, Odds and Broadcast Info

STILLWATER, Okla. — No. 24 Oklahoma State has an opportunity to reach an important milestone Saturday night.

The Cowboys (5-2, 3-1 Big 12) travel to Ames to face Iowa State (3-4, 1-3) with a chance to secure their sixth victory and become bowl eligible in Eric Morris' first season as head coach.

Oklahoma State is coming off a 57-24 victory over Colorado, while Iowa State is looking to rebound from a 39-3 loss at Arizona.

The Halloween matchup also features two first-year head coaches whose programs have taken different paths through the opening two months of the season.

The game was originally scheduled for FS1 before being moved to FOX, giving the Cowboys another national television appearance.

Friday afternoon lines, via FanDuel:

The Cowboys enter as road favorites despite Iowa State winning the last two meetings between the programs.

Odds are subject to change before kickoff.

Oklahoma State enters Saturday one victory away from the six-win threshold for bowl eligibility. For Morris, reaching the postseason would represent another step in establishing consistency within a program that underwent significant roster turnover during the offseason.

The Cowboys welcomed 91 newcomers entering the season and have already surpassed last year's win total by four games. Morris has emphasized the importance of additional bowl practices, particularly for younger players who would benefit from more developmental opportunities.

However, Oklahoma State's goals extend beyond reaching six victories. At 3-1 in conference play, the Cowboys remain firmly involved in the Big 12 race heading into November.

Oklahoma State enters the matchup averaging 40 points and 529.1 yards per game. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker has thrown for 2,326 yards, 20 touchdowns and six interceptions while completing approximately 66% of his passes.

The Cowboys have scored more than 30 points in six consecutive games, their longest such streak since the 2021-22 seasons.

Against Colorado, Mestemaker threw for 386 yards and four touchdowns as Oklahoma State generated 598 total yards. Running back Caleb Hawkins added 120 rushing yards, while receiver Justin Bowick finished with 138 receiving yards.

The Cowboys will look to continue that production against an Iowa State defense allowing 370.1 yards and 24.1 points per game.

Quarterback Jaylen Raynor remains Iowa State's starter despite being replaced by Connor Moberly during last week's loss to Arizona. The Arkansas State transfer has thrown for 1,107 yards, seven touchdowns and four interceptions this season. His mobility also presents a challenge for Oklahoma State's defensive front.

Running back Aiden Flora may be the Cyclones' most dangerous offensive weapon. Flora has rushed for 716 yards and six touchdowns while contributing as a receiver, returner and occasional passer.

Morris specifically highlighted Flora's versatility during Tuesday's media availability. Containing Flora and limiting Raynor's ability to extend plays will be important priorities for Oklahoma State.

Iowa State enters Saturday averaging 25.9 points and 339.9 yards per game.

Oklahoma State averages 341 passing yards per game, while Iowa State allows 218.1.

Mestemaker has developed productive connections with Wyatt Young and Justin Bowick, giving the Cowboys multiple options capable of generating explosive plays. Young leads Oklahoma State with 639 receiving yards and six touchdowns.

The Cyclones have dealt with significant injuries this season, including several losses at wide receiver, while their defense has struggled to contain opponents in recent weeks.

If Oklahoma State protects Mestemaker and establishes an early rhythm, the Cowboys could put considerable pressure on an Iowa State team searching for offensive consistency.

Oklahoma State leads the all-time series 34-22-3 entering the 60th meeting between the programs. However, Iowa State has won the last two matchups.

The Cyclones defeated Oklahoma State 20-13 in Stillwater last season and earned a 34-27 victory in Ames in 2023. Iowa State has also won the last two meetings at Jack Trice Stadium.

The matchup carries additional history because of Iowa State's memorable 37-31 double-overtime upset of No. 2 Oklahoma State in 2011. Saturday presents another opportunity for the Cowboys to earn a significant road victory in Ames.

Oklahoma State enters Saturday with momentum, a productive offense and an opportunity to secure bowl eligibility. Iowa State, meanwhile, is looking to end its recent struggles and earn a statement victory against a ranked opponent.

The Cowboys will need to avoid overlooking a Cyclones team that has historically made this series competitive, particularly in Ames. If Mestemaker continues producing explosive plays and Oklahoma State contains Flora, the Cowboys should be positioned to compete for their sixth victory.

Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. CT Saturday on FOX.