Cyclones Seek Big 12 Redemption in Houston Showdown

No. 19 Iowa State (3-0) heads to Houston (1-3) for their first Big 12 conference matchup, looking to avoid a repeat of their last 3-0 start that ended in a five-game losing streak. The Cyclones are aiming to get off on the right foot in league play, while the Cougars continue to struggle in their second season as a Power 4 program.

Cyclones Primed for Big 12 Breakthrough After Dominant Non-Conference Run

Cyclones Cruise Through Non-Conference Schedule

Iowa State wrapped up its non-conference slate with a convincing 52-7 victory over Arkansas State, a game that lacked any real drama. The Cyclones have now started the season 3-0 for the second time in three years under head coach Matt Campbell. However, they'll be looking to ensure this fast start doesn't lead to the same disappointing finish as their last 3-0 campaign, which was followed by a five-game losing streak.

Cyclones Offense Firing on All Cylinders

The Cyclones' offense has been firing on all cylinders through the first three games, averaging 31 points per contest. Quarterback Hunter Dekkers has been efficient, completing over 70% of his passes for 745 yards, 7 touchdowns, and just 1 interception. The running game has also been a strength, with Jirehl Brock and Deon Silas combining for 336 yards and 5 scores on the ground. This balanced attack will be crucial as Iowa State looks to make a statement in Big 12 play.

Defensive Dominance Fuels Cyclones' Hot Start

Iowa State's defense has been the real story, however, as the unit has stifled opponents throughout the non-conference slate. The Cyclones are allowing just 10.3 points per game and have forced 7 turnovers. Linebacker Drake Moss has been a standout, leading the team with 24 tackles and 2 interceptions. This defensive prowess will be put to the test against a Houston offense that has struggled to find consistency.

Cyclones Eyeing Big 12 Redemption

After their last 3-0 start ended in disappointment, the Cyclones are determined to prove they can sustain their early-season success. A win over Houston would not only give them a strong start in Big 12 play but also serve as a statement that this Iowa State team is different from the one that faltered a year ago. With a balanced offense and a stifling defense, the Cyclones have the tools to make a run at the conference title.

Houston Seeks Stability Amid Big 12 Struggles

Houston has had a tumultuous start to its second season as a Power 4 program, dropping 8 of its first 10 Big 12 games dating back to last year. The Cougars have already suffered losses to UNLV, Oklahoma, and Cincinnati, sandwiched around a narrow win over Rice. Head coach Dana Holgorsen is facing increasing pressure to turn things around, and a home matchup against a ranked Iowa State squad presents a significant challenge.

Cougars' Offense Searching for Consistency

Houston's offense has been the primary source of concern, averaging just 22.5 points per game and struggling to find any semblance of consistency. Quarterback Lucas Coley has thrown for 803 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions, while the running game has been largely ineffective. The Cougars will need to find a way to get their offense on track if they hope to pull off the upset against the Cyclones.

Defensive Woes Compound Houston's Struggles

The Cougars' defense has also been a significant issue, allowing an average of 34.5 points per game. The unit has struggled to stop the run and has been vulnerable through the air, making them an inviting target for an Iowa State offense that has found success in both phases. Houston will need to shore up its defensive weaknesses if it hopes to slow down the Cyclones' balanced attack.

Cougars Facing Uphill Battle Against Ranked Foe

With their Big 12 record already in jeopardy, the Cougars face a daunting task in hosting a ranked Iowa State squad that has looked dominant through the first three weeks of the season. Houston will need to find a way to capitalize on any Cyclones' mistakes and generate turnovers to have a chance at pulling off the upset. However, the odds appear to be stacked against the Cougars, who will be looking to avoid falling further behind in the Big 12 standings.