Iowa State at Iowa Betting Pick & Prediction – 9/7/2024

The Iowa State Cyclones will take on the Iowa Hawkeyes on September 7, 2024, with the Cyclones entering as 2.5 point underdogs according to DraftKings Sportsbook. Early betting trends show Iowa State receiving 35% of the spread bets, while Iowa is favored with 65%. The total of 35.5 has led to 82% of bets on the under and 18% on the over. This matchup between the Cyclones and Hawkeyes is sure to be a close and exciting game for college football fans. Here, you will find our best bet for Iowa State vs Iowa.

Iowa State Prepares For Defensive Battle With Iowa

The Iowa State Cyclones got a win in their season opener, beating FCS North Dakota by a score of 21-3. Iowa State lost the time of possession battle in that game in a big way, with the Cyclones defense being on the field for nearly 38 of the game's 60 minutes. But their defense held strong throughout and will need to do so again here in order for the Cyclones to win this all-Iowa rivalry game.

Finding a way to run the football against Iowa is going to be a huge key to this game for the Cyclones. Iowa State had just 86 rushing yards against the Fighting Hawks of North Dakota, averaging under 4.0 yards per carry against their FCS opponents in that game. Against one of the best defenses in college football year in and year out, Iowa State's ability to create space for their rushers will be paramount to avoid predictable passing situations on third and longs.

Can Iowa Offense Show Continued Signs Of Life?

The Iowa Hawkeyes pitched a shutout in their season opening game, beating FCS Illinois State 40-0. In typical Iowa fashion, the Hawkeyes held Illinois State under 200 yards of total offense and forced three turnovers. But it was the Iowa offense that turned some heads, as their passing game looked more lively than it had in a long time.

Iowa quarterback Cade McNamara threw for 251 yards and three touchdowns in the win over Illinois State. To be fair, that was an FCS opponent and things will likely be tougher for McNamara against a rival from the FBS. But any signs of life from the Iowa offense are encouraging signs for that team and Iowa would love to see more from their passing game in what should be a tight contest here.

Iowa State vs Iowa Best Bet

We are taking the under in this Iowa State vs Iowa matchup in college football. Iowa was an under machine last season and should pick right back up where they left off in this game, one where both defenses already look like they are ready for sustained success in 2024. While the total is low in this game, that is nothing new when Hawkeye football is involved and this should be an intense and low-scoring slog of a football game.

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