AMES, Iowa — The BYU Cougars (7-0, 4-0 Big 12) arrive in Ames on Saturday to face the Iowa State Cyclones (5-2, 2-2 Big 12) at Jack Trice Stadium in a matchup that could significantly shape the conference’s title race.
BYU enters the game riding high after a gritty road win against their rival Utah, which underlined the team’s depth, resilience, and rising national profile. That victory helped vault the Cougars into the national conversation. Iowa State, meanwhile, hopes to bounce back after consecutive close losses and a bye week to regroup and sharpen up for this key home tilt.
What to Watch
1. Cougar Momentum vs. Cyclone Stumble
BYU has compiled seven straight wins to begin the season, signalling the program’s best start under head coach Kalani Sitake. The offense, led by quarterback Bear Bachmeier and running back LJ Martin, has shown consistency in both rushing and passing attack. The defense has held strong in high-pressure environments.
Iowa State, under coach Matt Campbell, presents a contrasting narrative: a talented roster but recent setbacks and injury concerns have raised questions about their ability to finish. The Cyclones’ home crowd will be fervent, but execution must match expectation.
2. Matching Styles & Key Battle Areas
- BYU’s strength in converting long drives into points gives them an edge in sustained offensive possession.
- Iowa State’s challenge: slow the tempo, win physical battles at the line of scrimmage, and convert red-zone opportunities.
- The Cyclones’ defense has allowed big plays this season, particularly versus play-action and explosive backs. BYU will look to exploit that with Martin’s running and Bachmeier’s dual-threat ability.
- On special teams and turnover margin, BYU currently holds the advantage; Iowa State must tighten those phases.
3. Stakes & Implications
For BYU, a win would solidify their place among the Big 12 elite and enhance their College Football Playoff resume. It would mark a defining road win against a ranked conference foe, something this program has chased for years.
For Iowa State, the matchup is somewhat of a must-win. Falling to 5-3 and 2-3 in conference would place the season in jeopardy. Restoring credibility and momentum at home is vital.
Prediction & Final Thoughts
Expect a tightly contested game, but the lean goes to BYU given current form, depth, and overall trajectory. If the Cougars execute their game plan cleanly while minimizing mistakes, they have the tools to emerge victorious on the road. Iowa State will bring emotion, home crowd intensity, and the desire to stop the slide—but whether they have enough consistency remains uncertain.
Credit: SportBuzzHub.com | October 25, 2025
