Iowa State At Utah

Vonbon Hill

2 min read

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25-11-2024

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Matchup of the Week: Cyclones Face Stiff Test Against Utes

The Iowa State Cyclones are gearing up for a tough road trip to Salt Lake City, where they'll face off against the Utah Utes in a crucial Pac-12 vs. Big 12 matchup. Both teams are looking to bounce back from recent losses, and this contest promises to be an intense battle between two talented squads.

Iowa State Looking to Rebound

The Cyclones (3-2, 1-1 Big 12) are coming off a disappointing 31-24 loss to Baylor last weekend. Despite a strong showing from quarterback Brock Purdy, who threw for 342 yards and two touchdowns, Iowa State's defense struggled to contain the Bears' high-powered offense.

To get back on track, the Cyclones will need to shore up their defensive unit, which has allowed an average of 25 points per game this season. They'll also need to find ways to get their running game going, as they've managed just 114 yards on the ground per contest.

Utah Seeking Redemption

The Utes (3-2, 1-1 Pac-12) are also looking to rebound from a tough loss, having fallen 27-24 to USC in overtime last week. Utah's defense was stout, holding the Trojans to just 314 total yards, but their offense sputtered, converting just 4 of 14 third-down attempts.

Utah will need to find ways to get its offense in sync, as quarterback Cam Rising has struggled to find consistency this season. The Utes' running game, led by Tavion Thomas and Micah Bernard, will also need to be more productive against the Cyclones' stingy defense.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Iowa State WR Xavier Hutchinson vs. Utah CB Clark Phillips III: Hutchinson has been a bright spot for the Cyclones, hauling in 34 receptions for 434 yards and two touchdowns this season. Phillips III, a talented cornerback, will need to be at the top of his game to contain Hutchinson.
• Utah RB Tavion Thomas vs. Iowa State LB Mike Rose: Thomas has been a workhorse for the Utes, rushing for 322 yards and three touchdowns this season. Rose, a tackling machine, will need to be ready to bring down Thomas and the Utah running game.

Prediction

This matchup promises to be a hard-hitting, physical contest between two teams desperate for a win. While both squads have shown flashes of brilliance this season, Utah's home-field advantage and stingy defense give them the edge in this one.

Final Score: Utah 24, Iowa State 20