Games of Interest week 9

 1. #6 Michigan (7-0) v. #8 Michigan State (7-0) - this just so happens to be the ESPN Gameday location for the upcoming week, in Lansing Michigan.  This is a match up of unbeatens, and possibly will determine representation in the Big Ten Championship game from the Big Ten East.   Michigan is favored by 4 points, but Michigan State had a bye week last week and they are playing at home.   I think this feels more like a pick 'em game. 

2. #10 Ole Miss (6-1) v. #18 Auburn (5-2) - Ole Miss is #2 in their division and Auburn is #3 so this has big time implications in the divisional race.   Ole Miss has a high flying offense, but Auburn like Michigan State had a bye week last week and they have this game at home.   Auburn is favored by 2.5, but I think this game is a pick 'em as well.   This game wouldn't be that interesting, but Lane Kiffin is the Ole Miss coach, and he always makes it interesting - like being at a wild Halloween party. 

3. #20 Penn State (5-2)  v. #2 Ohio State (6-1) - Ohio State is favored by 18.5.   I think Ohio State wins this game without an October scare, but Penn State will make it a closer game than the spread.  James Franklin head coach for Penn State changed his agent this week, which appears he is positioning himself for either the LSU or the USC job.  It also appears he has has taken his eye off the ball after losing back to back game to Iowa and Illinois.   Make this one three in a row for Penn State. 

4. #9 Iowa (6-1) v. Wisconsin (4-3) - The Badgers are favored in this one by 3.5 points.   I can't believe that Wisconsin is favored versus a #9 team, unless Vegas and the odds makers don't really believe that Iowa is the #9 team in the county.   I don't have a dog in this hunt, but it is an important game for the Big Ten West.  Big Question: can Wisconsin over come their turnover tendencies and force Iowa to beat them with their Oliver Tractor offense, popping along on all of two cylinders.  Iowa will make it close.  

5. #22 Iowa State v. West Virginia - Iowa State is favored by 7 while playing on the road.   I like Iowa State in this one, but not sure I would place a wager to cover the 7 points.   Iowa State plays close games, like this all the time.    This is a do or disappoint game for Iowa State.   If they win they continue on their march toward the Big 12 Championship game.  Lose and there will be disappointment from more than just this guy. 

West Virginia Mountaineers Week.

Iowa State will win this game - why?   It is October.   ISU does not lose in October.   But, not so fast my friends the Mountaineers are not known for being hospitable hosts.  The fan base is a little less sophisticated in the Appalachian Mountains.  Kind of like the State Fair, their high class fans find their way to Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium on crisp fall Saturday afternoons. 

Iowa State should win this game, however I don't see any gimmes on the remaining schedule except maybe Texas Tech.  I only say Tech because they just fired their coach last week after a 25-24 loss to Kansas State.   Every week is grind and the hunt begins this weekend with the Mountaineers.  West Virginia is not a gimme.  They are passionate, and outspoken, bordering on Hawkeye obnoxious (bordering). 

QB's:  The current Big 12 QB Leaders in passing are #1 WVU Jarret Doege with 1,701 yards and #2 Brocktober Purdy with 1,648 yards.   This surprised me because West Virginia is 3-4 while Iowa State comes to the game at 5-2.   West Virginia has a balanced attack and really spreads the ball around to multiple receivers. The Mountaineers have been chasing some games but not able to bag the W.  

Rushing: Breece Hall ranks #2 in Big 12 rushing with 818 yards and the Mountaineers lead back Leddie Brown ranks #8.   Big edge to the Cyclones. 

Receiving:  ISU's High Stepping Xavier Hutchinson is #3 in Big 12 receiving 539 yards.  WVU's number one receiver is #9 Winston Wright Jr. with 423 yards.  They also list the #14, #16, #21, #24 receivers in The Big 12.   After High Step Hutch ISU logs #12 Charlie Kolar and #35 Breece Hall.   ISU spreads the ball, however WVU has an even more balanced receiving threat.  This edge goes to WVU.  

Total Team Offense:   Iowa State Ranks #6, directly followed by WVU #7.  Offensively this looks to be a spread 'em out and spread it around type of coon hunt.   

Defense:  We all know ISU has the #1 defense (Big 12), #3 in the country.   ISU total yards allowed: 1,840 - 1,147/693 passing/rushing yards allowed.  WVU ranks #5 with total yards allowed of 2,501 - 1,735/766.   Rush defense is where the Mountaineers shine.   Oklahoma State packed the box and forced Brock Purdy to beat them and attempted to shut down the Iowa State rushing game, which for the most part was successful.   I would expect much of the same.  Although, there may be some extra coverage on High Stepping Hutch.   Defensively there is a big edge to Iowa State.  In the last three meetings WVU has not scored more than 14 points - all were Cyclone victories.   P.S. Will McDonald only need 0.5 sacks to tie Jaquan Bailey's all time sack record. 

I predict this game to be another close one, WVU plays well at home.   Plus, I think it is more than likely than the Cyclones fall behind in the score, but find a way to pull it out in the end.  The Mountaineers are a better team than their record presents and plays well at home, yet I think the Cyclone veterans will make the difference for the Cyclones.  

*** If you are wondering why Xavier Hutchinson is getting the Moniker "High Step Hutch".   You can view the video of the play where he was called for unsportsman like conduct "taunting" for high stepping into the end, and had his touchdown called back.  Enjoy the call from the Iowa State media. 

Oklahoma State 10 years later.

Iowa State upsets Oklahoma State again at Home.   2011 ISU upset #2 Ok. State - 10 years later ISU upsets Ok. State in 2021, at home.  Two things jump out at me when I look at these two pictures.   First, the end zone has been bowled in and has a much larger number of seats available.   Secondly, the scoreboard is almost 4 times the size - much bigger.   

Shout out to Jamie Pollard, who has done so much to expand our program along with the highering of Matt Campbell.   It is great to see these kind of wins and program expansion.  Pollard has done so much around continually upgrading the facilities and the overall gameday experience.   Most of all getting fans to the stadium, and filling the stands.  Fans spend money and allows for investment.  

This wins puts Iowa State back in the race for The Big 12 Championship game in Dallas.  There are no guarantees.   The first step is to win all of the remaining games.   Next up West Virginia with a 1:00 pm kickoff, Central Time.  

Campbell Records.

ISU’s head coach broke the school record for career wins in conference competition Saturday against Kansas State. Campbell is now 28-20 against league foes since he took over the program in 2016. Dan McCarney went 27-68 versus the Big 12 from 1995-2006. Campbell also became he first head coach in program history to have beaten every Big 12 foe on the road at least once. 

Nothing against Dan McCarney, but this is exactly one of the main reasons I wanted to move on from him.  Because, I have always valued conference wins over a win against Iowa.   Dan did great things for the program, but Matt is taken us to a new level, he will eventually shake the Hawk hosing and overcome them consistently. 

How Big is This Game?

The Oklahoma State game this weekend might be the defining game for the Cyclones this year.  Possibly the biggest game for Campbell and his legacy, so far.  It has the feel of T-Intersection Sign, and we are approaching at 90 plus miles an hour in the family sedan.  Hold on, I think someone just offered me a beer from the back, hang on I think we can make it this is going to be fun.   

If ISU can win against a 6-0 Oklahoma State team that is currently raked #8 in the country, Iowa State jumps right back into the conversation surrounding The Big 12 Championship discussion.   Iowa State would still have an opportunity to capitalize on the most talented team top to bottom that Iowa State has seen - ever.   Iowa State could still benefit and jump back into the Top 20 and some national exposure on the recruiting front, that has fallen off the cliff since the Baylor loss.  This is the type of program defining win that long term football programs are built upon. 

If Iowa State beats Ok. State the myth around Campbell lead teams in October continues to build.   It becomes more of Campbells legacy, which feels more good than bad. 

If Iowa State loses at home to a team they are favored to beat from a Vegas perspective, what does it do for the rest of Iowa State's Season?  Is the bubble popped and 2021 becomes a major bust season?  The Cyclone Cynicism from a fan pessimism goes back to what we have been - couch centered cy-bird TV fans?   If ISU loses the Clone fan pessimism will run at a higher than a COVID temperature, pre-vaccine.  

If Iowa State loses to Ok. State, does Campbell become the best we had, but still couldn't get it done?  Does Campbell decide this was a fun stepping stone and it is time to look for greener pastures, particularly with conference realignment a major recruiting topic?   

How does the Cyclone team respond to a Cyclone loss?   The team too could go one of two ways.   If they win out it is still a good season, with a nice bowl possibility.   But, I think that is unlikely - Oklahoma looks electric with their new Freshman QB Caleb Williams.   Williams wins a Heisman, mark it in the books - he looks as electric as Kyler Murray and has as good an arm as Baker Mayfield's (both won Heisman's).   If the team loses do they throw up their hands and wait for a tow truck, while pondering how mom and dad are going to react to wrecking the family truckster? 

Either way: win or lose - there are already a number of head coach openings at some major Blue Chip schools, like USC and LSU.   Campbell may not be the best fit for these openings, but James Franklin current Head Coach of Penn State has been mentioned as a target in both these searches.   Campbell could be a fine fit and major target at Penn State, and more dominoes could fall.   Yet, since the Baylor loss Campbell's name has not been thrown around so freely.   But, make no mistake he is still on radar. 

Tune in Saturday.   I hope this become a celebration like the one when Iowa State knocked off #2 Oklahoma State at home in 2011.   Here is the highlight clip for some well needed big time mojo. 

Iowa State upsets #2 Oklahoma State 2011

New Heisman Contender ...

There is a new Heisman Trophy candidate that hails from the Big 12.   Caleb Williams from Oklahoma is now ranked in the 5th spot of potentially winning the Heisman.   Why does it matter.   Well he has only started one game against TCU, because he was the backup quarterback to Spencer Rattler up until about midway through the Texas game.   

This is unprecedented (most despised COVID word), he was the backup for nearly half the season.   Williams is the most dynamic player I've seen since Kyler Murray (also an Oklahoma Heisman winner).

Not only is this incredible, but Caleb Williams vaults all other Big 12 candidates.   This includes Breece Hall ISU Running Back, Bijon Robinson Texas Running Back, and Brock Purdy ISU Quarterback.   

As much as I hate seeing Oklahoma find life behind Williams, it does bring a new level of intrigue to the Heisman race.   This brings a level of attention for that hasn't been there since Lamar Jackson won it at Louisville.   I never thought Jackson would win because he wasn't from one of big blue blood schools.     I thought it was a major injustice when both Randy Moss, and Troy Davis did not win the Heisman because they were from the wrong schools.  That's when I quit following the Heisman race, and lost overall interest - it became a popularity contest versus "The Best Football Player".   

Oklahoma State v. Iowa State Preview

Ok State Coach Mike Gundy

Oklahoma State is ranked #8 in the Country and currently undefeated at   6-0.   On paper these
teams look very evenly matched.   Actually Iowa State is favored by Vegas odds and projected by 5.5 points.   Everything else is very closely matched.   

Defensively this game will match up the #1 and #2 defenses in The Big 12.   The #1 Iowa State defense has a slight edge in the total yards allowed (300 less than the Cowboys).   That comes at the hands of a slightly better pass defense so far.   The rushing yards allowed by Iowa State is 586 and Oklahoma State has allowed 593 a 7 yard difference.   Both defenses are tough and do not allow many yards or points.             Gundy Dad Dancing after TX Win

Offensively Iowa State again holds a slight edge - They Cyclones have 338 more overall yards than the Cowboys.   ISU is ranked #6 and Oklahoma State is ranked #7 in the Big 12 offensively.   So far everything on paper looks to be a pick 'em game, and keep everyone in their seats through the 4th qtr.  

Special Teams Oklahoma State has a big advantage they are Ranked #2 overall in the Big 12.   Iowa State clocks in at #8 overall for Special Team in the Big 12.   This could be the difference maker and has been a noticeable flaw in Matt Campbell Coached teams.   I have read multiple people make comments about how Iowa State is know for and traditionally weak Special Teams play, under Campbell. 

This game will come down to the team that can force turnovers, and avoid giving turnovers, or a special teams play that flips the field.   Last week Oklahoma State was down 17-3 when Jason Taylor (Ok State)  had a pick 6 that flipped the momentum of the game.   Texas was in the red zone and about to score, and would have gone up big.   The interception brought the Pokes within 7 points with 17-10 score, from there they found a way to win.  Jaylen Warren OK State RB had 193 yards rushing and 157 yards in the second half to propel the Okies win. 

Pistol Pete - Oklahoma State Mascot
(I find him offensive to Pete's) 

  Iowa State can not allow the Cowboys to have big   turnovers, or special teams errors and expect to win.   Iowa State played good tight football against Kansas   State, but this Oklahoma State defense will be much   more stingy and resemble Baylor who is currently #3   in defense in The Big 12, and gave Iowa State a loss   and offensive fits all day.   I'm expecting a tight   contest with a couple of long faced moments, but   much standing in the fourth quarter.   I'm also   expecting a very conservative game plan where field   position will be a big factor in the game.  

Games of Interest This Weekend.

 1.  #12 Oklahoma State (5-0) v. #25 Texas (4-2) - Oklahoma State is on the road and Texas is coming off a very close loss to their Red River Rival Oklahoma.   Both of these teams appears to be very good.   I believe Texas is under rated for once.   Normally, they get the standard Top 10 ranking for none other than being Texas.   Texas has arguably the best running back in The Big 12 - Bijon Robinson.   Oddly, the lower team is favored - Texas.   I really only care because Oklahoma State is the next opponent on the Iowa State roster.  Oklahoma State is balanced and solid all around.   But, I think the talent from Texas wins this one.   They were leading by 18 last week and let it slip away.   I don't see the same this week.  Final Score Oklahoma State 32 - Texas 24. 

2. #12 Kentucky (6-0) v. #1 Georgia (6-0)- This is a battle of the unbeatens.   There are only 13 undefeated teams left this year and there will be one less following this matchup.   I like what Mark Stoops and the Kentucky Wildcats have been able to do - but this is a Georgia lock.   They will not lose at home.  There shouldn't be any surprise that ESPN Gameday picked this game as the one to travel to this week.   Little question in  this one.   Final score: Georgia 30 v. Kentucky 13

3. #19 BYU (5-1) v. Baylor (5-1) -  Consider this a preview of the new Big 12.   We don't know when but BYU will be joining the Big 12 and this could be the beginning of a bit of rivalry.   Add on top both schools are private and have a religious affiliation.   We'll see who gets the favored by the football gods.  Baylor is a very good team at home.   But, I like the Cougars on the road.  Baylor is beginning to look for real.   Final score: Baylor 38 v. BYU 24

4.  #22 NC State (4-1)  v. Boston College (4-1)  - I guess I have to put an ACC game in here.  There both 4-1 which is the only appeal for me, however I do enjoy some Mack Brown coached teams.  Therefore NC State prevails.   Final Score NC State 33 v Boston College 7.  This was a complete beating. 

5. #18 Arizona State (5-1) v. Utah (3-2) - Like the last entry I suppose I'm forced to call out a PAC 12 game, and if so this is it.   Utah can be tricky at home.   But, I like Herm Edwards and the Sun Devils in this one.   I don't think that Arizona State has hit peak, maybe next gear, but keep an eye on this team for the future, as long as Edwards remains the head coach.   Arizona State in a close one.  Final Score Utah 35 v Arizona State 17.    I didn't see this one coming at all.  

*** Iowa State (3-2)  v. Kansas State (3-2)  - If Iowa State finds a way to lose this game, I will use the entire October Swear Jar allotment.  It is in Manhattan and Iowa State has not won in Manhattan the last 17 trips, so I'm saving the potty mouth for the weekend.   Yet, I'm calling this one a close win with the Cyclones on top.   Brock will find a way to pull it out in the 4th quarter, it is Brocktober after all.   Final Score Iowa State 30 v Kansas State 22.   Iowa State jumped out to a lead and never looked back. 

*** Nothing of interest in The Big Ten - Dig, Jab, Poke, and Pinch.  😁

I have to comment on Purdue dropping a Number 2 all over Iowa.   Final Score Purdue 24 v. Iowa 7.   It does take some offense to win games. 

Iowa State Preseason Basketball Rank ...

Iowa State is picked in the Preseason by all the other Big 12 Basketball Coaches to finish last.   So, we have that to look forward to this winter.   And it looks to be unanimous.   

Kansas State Preview

Kansas State has been a prickly October opponent in the past.   Somehow they always seem to have just enough to beat the Cyclones.   The way the Cyclones have played up to this point has not exactly instilled a great deal of confidence in this Commissioner.   

Kansas State has a run first offense and personality.   Deuce Vaughn, sophomore Running Back is their leading rusher and second leading receiver.  Which means the majority of the offense goes through their Running Back, Vaughn.  

Skylar Thompson, Super Senior QB was hurt in an earlier game this year and has been shaky at times.   But, when healthy he can make some things happen.   Kansas State along with Iowa State is also coming off a bye week.  I believe K-State used the off week to get healthy, while Iowa State used the off week to fine tune some of the small things.  So, they should both be  healthy, very well prepared, and ready to go.    

Defense could be one of the deciding factors.   Kansas State's defense is currently ranked #44 and allowing an average of 342.6 yards per game.  Therefore, Iowa State should be able to move the ball and score some points.  Compare that to Iowa State's Defense ranked #3 while allowing a stingy 234.2 yards per game.   If Iowa State can stop the Running Back Vaughn on offense and special teams, Skylar Thompson may have a long day, and be forced to lead and carry the team. 

As for Offense Iowa State has a showing at #38th and gaining 442.0 yards per game.   Iowa State is currently ranked #6 offensively in The Big 12 and K-State is ranked #9 offensively in The Big 12.  Kansas State does not make the list of the Top 50 ranked offenses.   

Bottom Line: if Iowa State comes out flat and allows the Wildcats to get a nice first half lead like they did against Iowa and Baylor, the game will be up in the air and likely unfavorable.   If Iowa State can come out and jump on the Cats, like they did against Kansas and UNLV - Iowa State should win the game without much nail biting.   

Prediction: Before, During, and After The GAME

This game doesn't make me as nervous as Baylor.   But, I'm still not 100% convinced that Iowa State is as good as their preseason prediction.   It is Iowa State and Kansas State at 6:30, on the road in Manhattan.   Iowa State hasn't won on the road in Manhattan for 17 years, so this is a thorny road game.  It is the 104th meeting of Iowa State and K-State.   Iowa State currently leads the all time series 51-49-4.   But, I'm expecting a close game with this one, and may require some liquid calming nerve agent.    The Cyclones seem to find a way to make these types of games uncomfortable,.   

Logo Similarity

I have never noticed how closely these logos resemble each other. Bill Snyder who owned Iowa State while head coach of the Kansas State Wildcats hails form the Hayden Fry coaching tree.   Snyder along with many other famous Head Coaches that once coached under Hayden Fry went on to Kansas State and turned the Wildcats into a national football power.  One of the first things Fry did when he went to Iowa was change the Logo.  Hayden Fry had a system and it worked.   Snyder although not as flamboyant as Fry on the personality side, appears to have copied much of the Fry model down to the logo.  You can be the judge, what say you? 

 

How did he do it?

Jon Gruden is out of football again.   This time for getting caught sending racist, misogynistic, and homophobic emails.   Gruden was 4 years into his monster $100 million dollar blockbuster contract.  But, he had to walk away.   He got caught with his email out. 

So, my question is how does a head football coach like Kirk Ferentz do it?   After the George Floyd case breaks Ferentz had 8 of his former players make claims that they were victims of "Targeted Discriminatory Behavior".  Since then 5 more players have joined the suit bringing the total to 13 former players.   

The argument I've heard is these were just disgruntled players that weren't able to make it in the pros.   Although Kirk Ferentz was NOT named as the one making the remarks and discriminatory behavior, Strength Coach Chris Doyle and Offensive Coordinator Brian Ferentz son of said Head Coach were the one cited for creating the "Iowa Way".   Kirk Ferentz is the CEO and Head Coach, and should be responsible for how players, coaches, and employees of the Hawkeye Program are treated.  So, how does he get away with it?   Jon Gruden can't do it, and he was paid a lot more than Ferentz.   . 

First you make Strength Coach Chris Doyle your fail guy.   Doyle negotiated a Black and Gold settlement of $1.1 million dollars and resigned.  Doyle symbolically took the fall and most of the heat, for the time being.  He was latter signed as a Director of Sports Performance for the Jacksonville Jaguars and quickly resigned after backlash from Jaguar players.   It looks like Doyle has now finally been black balled.   

But what about the Ferentz team?  The Offensive Coordinator still has his job.   Kirk Ferentz still has his $2.7 million dollar salary, total pay is $5.0 mill.  Highest Paid Big Ten Coaches Should I mention that Ferentz and crew decided not to take a voluntary pay cut during the COVID season.   The Iowa athletic department eliminated 40 positions through layoffs and attrition while forcing most non-contract employees to take unpaid furlough and salary cuts.   Ferentz choose to keep his bowl bonus and forego a voluntary salary cut.    

There are very few that can get away with this type of insensitivity and racial disparity.   I guess if you live in the White Bread Basket of Iowa City you can.   Kirk Ferentz is one of the highest paid State of Iowa employees.   Which makes me beg the question - what is the racial tolerance and motivation of the entire State of Iowa?  Is it okay to allow this type of behavior from a State employee? 

I will mention that there is a pending trial set on May 6-18 of 2023.   The defendants are Kirk Ferentz, Brian Ferentz, Chris Doyle, the University of Iowa, and the State Board of Regents.  

I'm not trying to come across as a Hawkeye Hater (although my sister accuses me of this frequently).  I only like to write about The Hawkeyes once a year, during Hawkeye and Cyclone week.   But, this Jon Gruden issue is topical and I thought it to be quite the contrast in values, or maybe not - considering the two head coaches in question.   I would suggest just like conference realignment this issue is far from over.   

P.S.  This just in: Iowa's Offense is ranked 119th in college football and last for total yards in the Big Ten.   That's a little weird for a team ranked #2 in the County.   Eventually the lack of Offensive production will catch-up to The Hawks.  They say, "Defense wins Championships."  But, you can't win the game if you don't score points.

I had a weird dream

I was watching football over the weekend.   I was on my couch when I feel asleep, but when I woke up the announcer was saying the Iowa had beaten Penn State.   The announcer was saying that the Iowa Defense had created 4 interceptions and had gone on to win the game by 3 points.   Then today I wake up and Iowa is ranked #2 in the country.   I have to ask myself - "Self, are we in Bizarro World"?

This can't keep happening.   Iowa creating turnovers and allowing their defense to win their games for them.   They barely have enough offense to even resemble a team that can score more than 24 points against any team except the patsy's.  

Alabama loses and they drop to #5.   I still think Alabama is the #2 team in the county.    I say this because I think it is true.   But, I also have to say it because there are a couple of Hawk fans that read the blog.   So, I'm just trying to see how often they tune in and keep them honest.   

Kansas State preview later this week.   K-State has been a tricky opponent in the past.      

BTW, where is the ACC and the Pac 12.   Oregon (PAC 12) comes at #9 and Wake Forest (ACC) is the lone ACC contestant at #16.   I guess Arizona State #18 (PAC 12).  Good luck with the next television contract PAC 12.   The ACC is currently locked up through 2036, and they are currently riding the tails of Wake Forest.    

How Long before Texas ...

Yes we have all heard Texas and Oklahoma are moving to the SEC.   My question is "how long before Texas tries to convince The SEC to have The SEC Championship game in Dallas, TX at Jerry World - AT&T Stadium in Arlington Texas.  The SEC Football Championship game has been held in Atlanta since 1994.  So, how long before they bring up the idea?   How long before they suggest a rotating schedule of every other year between Atlanta and Dallas?  UT suggested this strategy of moving the Big 12 Basketball Tournament from Kansas City to Dallas and they were successful with that bid.   

The current SEC Basketball Tournament is scheduled to be played in Tampa Florida this year 2021/2022 season.  But, next year it shift to Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, TN.   This is where I believe the UT power suits will attack first.   We'll see if this causes any type of riff, kind of like it did in The Big 12.   

I'm no Nostradamus, but my prediction is Texas begins these little power games shortly after they enter The SEC.   They will want to establish this power order at the Top of the heap.   They have only done this twice before with the now defunct Southwest Conference, and The Big 12 conference that they are choosing to leave.   Once that get a Championship Game be it football or basketball the fireworks begin. 

The Big Ten was Jobbed by ESPN ...

The Devil's Puppet Master

I mentioned in an earlier post who The Big Ten was passed over by Gameday.  I have been thinking more deeply on the topic.  If you are a college football fan other than the SEC conference, this should be a concern.   #3 Iowa v. #4 Penn State is the most highly ranked/rated game so far this year.   What makes this even more concerning is after  #1 Alabama and #2 Georgia there isn't really a clear cut #3.   However the game in Iowa City should set the winner up for a nice run toward the college football playoff, and solidify #3 status.   

Yet ESPN Gameday choose to travel to Dallas Texas and set up shop at Jerry World to cover the #6 Oklahoma and #21 Texas game.   What, what, why?   I believe it is a little reward for the two Big 12 defectors leaving for the SEC.   This is a subtle way of propping up The SEC and making everyone else outside of the SEC second class citizens.     I could speak about the merits of the teams and why I believe OU and Texas are a less desirable game (even though I am not in favor of propping up The Big Ten).   But, the merits don't matter anymore.   ESPN is the puppet master.   It is kind of a cynical way of looking at it - I know.      

In 2024 The SEC is entering into an exclusive Television deal with ESPN/ABC (both owned by Disney), already done.   The Big Ten Television deal is also up for negotiation in 2024, currently it is split between ESPN and Fox a nonexclusive deal.  As much as I enjoy watching my friends in the Big Ten get jobbed, I do not enjoy watching the ESPN puppet master.  I will get a chuckle from watching the Big Ten get there's.  

When the conference realignment story broke.   My Iowa friends acted like it was no big deal and The Big Ten would be fine.   I believe you would have to start to question that, after an alliance announcement, and your crown jewel, Ohio State getting beat by the Oregon ducks.  Realignment may affect your conference more than you think.  Need I remind you that you have new commissioner in The Big Ten.   So, I ask you Iowa fan, do you still think OU and UT leaving The Big 12 has no affect on you and The Big Ten?   There will be more to this story, lock it in - The Big Ten will feel an affect. 

What We Learned.

 Kansas is behind us like a hot August Saturday afternoon.    If only we could schedule Kansas a couple times a year.   Beyond the obvious blowout against Kansas there were a few items that made me optimistic about our future. 

1. Hunter Dekkers is getting some backup playing time this season.   Dekkers is a redshirt freshman, but looks good and looks like he should be able to slide into the starting QB role next year assuming Purdy goes onto the next level.   

2. The Running Back room seems to be very deep.   We just keep bringing in guys that can pound the rock.  Jirehl Brock and Deon Silas both looked very capable against the Jayhawks.   

3. Joe Scales - looks like he is the stretch the field guy, with some speed.   I would like to see more of him this year.   He is a junior and looks like he is developing nicely.  

4. The Defense has depth like we have never seen before.   Jon Heacock may not be the best defensive coach in the country, but he is definitely in the conversation.   

5.  I'm still skeptical of this team overall - they have pushed me back into that I'll believe when I see it mode from Iowa State.   Yes, Kansas was not ever in this game.   But, Kansas is ranked as one of the 25 worst college football teams in the nation, so ISU should have run them.   Iowa State has an October of trouble games, and they are going to have to show their October magic.  

Looking ahead to our next game Kansas State on the road.   Kansas State's QB Skylar Thompson has been hurt this season.   So, it is a welcome time for a bye week, both Iowa State and Kansas State have a week to rest up and prepare.   Kansas State is a run first offense much like our friends Baylor.   Some of this could be because Thompson has not been 100% healthy.    Deuce Vauhn is their main offensive threat.   Through 5 games Kansas State has only two players with over 200 yards receiving and 1 of those players is the running back Deuce Vauhn.   I expect a heavy dose of Smash and Bash offense, with a low scoring output from both teams. 

Kansas State comes to the game at 3-2 just like the Cyclones.   K-state lost their last 2 games to Oklahoma and Oklahoma State both of those teams are 5-0.   Kansas State has always bee that prickly little thorn that has always found a way to borrow deep under the skin.   It would be nice to take one from them on the road.   The game time has been set for a 6:30 kickoff, and I believe that favors Iowa State.  I'm going to call it a Cyclone win. 

Games to Watch this week.

Iowa State is on Bye this week, therefore we really don't have any must watch tv.   But, I'm a college football junky so here are the games to checkout this week.  Biggest story of the week is where ESPN College Gameday is setting up shop, and not (listed below).  

1.  #13 Arkansas v. #17 Ole Miss.   Both teams are coming off a loss.   Arkansas lost to Georgia last week and Ole Miss lost to Alabama.   Alabama and Georgia seem to be the cream of the Top 25.   Ole Miss is favored by 6.5 I would guess mostly because it is an Ole Miss home game.   I think these teams should be evenly matched.  This is probably the best game to watch all weekend. 

2.  #6 Oklahoma v. #21 Texas.   Oklahoma travels to Austin, TX for the Red River Rivalry game.   Oklahoma is favored by 3 points.   Oklahoma has been squeaking out wins all year.   I hate Texas in general and it makes my body convulse, but I am picking the upside down horns over the sooners.  I believe it is quite interesting that ESPN Gameday choose to travel to Dallas for the game over the Iowa v. Penn State game (which is much more highly ranked).   It looks like our friend ESPN is favoring the future SEC teams over the more highly ranked Big Ten game, is fishy or just smelly.   It makes me wonder who is really running college football right now.  

3. #2 Georgia v. #18 Auburn.   Even though Georgia has to travel to Auburn, AL, Georgia will roll the Screaming Eagles as if Gene Chizik were still their coach.  Georgia is my lock of the week. 

4. #3 Iowa v. #4 Penn State.   Iowa travels to Happy Valley to take on the Nittany Lions.   The funniest part is both teams are unbeaten.   Iowa is in the west side and Penn State in the East side    This could be a potential preview of the Big Ten Championship game.  I'm going to pick Penn State and laugh all Saturday morning during Gameday, not just because I'm an Iowa hater, but I am not so much a fan of the Big Ten either - Ha Ha, he hee.  Iowa can't pull Gameday without the help of Iowa State.   I believe Iowa's run of luck ends this week - I'll take Penn State. 

Very Little Swearing - Kansas Review.

 

Empty Swear Jar

Normally, during an Iowa State game I use up my weekly allotment of naughty words during the game, and this year because expectations have been high - I'm over my monthly allotment of the dirty vocabulary.  However, Saturday I predicted the game would be over by halftime.   In fact I was WRONG, it was over after the first quarter.   It was nice to watch the game without having to yell at the television like it was a toddler trying to touch a hot stove.   Plus, no alcohol needed during this game 

Brock Purdy's first quarter stats: 

• 
  5/5 pashing (completed passes) 
  
• 96 yards passing
• 50 yards rushing 
• 4 touchdowns  
• 756.9 quarterback rating (made this one up) 230.8 for game
• Most points in quarter for Iowa State Ever
• Purdy has 25 school records and counting

With all the talk about Breece Hall being a Heisman Trophy candidate throughout the summer.   I had a debate with my nephew about the most valuable player on the Cyclones.   He argued it was Breece Hall.   I countered with Brock Purdy.   He suggested that Hall was the one that made the offense tick, and Hall was the catalyst to opening the offense for the passing game.   I had the exact opposite argument.   I believe Purdy kind of made my argument for me on Saturday.   

The Cyclone Wave

 Let's hope this is the beginning of Brock-tober.   The month when   Purdy and the Cyclones make their move and become the force that we   have expected all along.  

Is Breece Hall a Cold Weather Weapon?

Do you think Breece Hall is more productive later in the season because he does better in cold weather.  I honestly don't know.   Cold weather teams have traditionally favored the run because it is easy to control your offense in cold weather.  But, it will be something that I'll be monitoring as we progress through the season.   Perhaps, this is one of the mysteries of why Iowa State has consistently gotten off to a slow start at the beginning of the season.   

Big Games to watch this weekend: 

• #5 Iowa (4-0) v. Maryland (4-0).   Iowa on the road, featuring two unbeaten teams.    Maryland highlights Tualia Tagovailoa brother of Tua Tagovailoa, former Alabama QB and runner-up Heisman Candidate.   This will be fun to watch, this is a good offense versus good defense. Final: 51-14 Iowa wins  It looks like Iowa maybe for real.   Iowa created 7 turnovers against Maryland.   Can their defense continue to look this good?  
• #8 Arkansas (4-0) v. #2 Georgia (4-0)   I refuse to follow the SEC, however it as been hard to ignore.   Arkansas has been a surprise and look really good.   While Georgia may be the 1st or 2nd best team in the country, and could give Alabama a real run for the top spot.   Final: 37-0 Georgia wins.   Holy Cow I did not see this blowout coming.   It looks like Alabama and Georgia, then everyone else. 
• #12 Ole Miss v. #1 Alabama   This is another SEC match up, I wouldn't care but, Lane Kiffin is the Ole Miss head coach who used to work for Nick Saban, Alabama head coach.   The pupil facing the teacher.   They are also a dichotomy of personalities.   Kiffin, fiery and outspoken and Sabbin stoic, grandfatherish, and a stuffy bore. He is equivalent of eating a sleeve a saltine crackers without any water.   *** Interesting story - Kiffin is recruiting Matt Coral a nephew of the Manning tree of quarterbacks.   He is alleged to be better than the other three.   I know, I know puke, throw up, and spew - he is in high school.   None the less Kiffin unfollowed everyone on his Instragram except one: Matt Coral.   Got to love social media. Kiffin Recruiting Tactics  Final: 42-21 Alabama wins.   Saltine Saban wins again - Alabama looks like the cream on the top. 
• #7 Cincinnati (3-0)  v. #9 Notre Dame (4-0)  This one is interesting because Cincinnati has committed to The Big 12, and could be a coming out party for a new Big 12 dance partner.  This is a Notre Dame home game and they are not favored, Cincinnati is giving up points in Vegas.  Cincy is coming off a bye week with 2 whole weeks to prepare and heal for this upcoming match-up.   This is an elimination game for both concerning the BCS playoff championship, whoever loses is likely out of the discussion.  Final: 24-13 Cincinnati wins again.   This is really good news for the New Big 12.  Only question now can enough teams at the top knock themselves out to allow Cincy to sneak into the BCS Playoff conversation. 
• #19 Oklahoma State (4-0) v. #21 Baylor (4-0).   The battle of unbeatens at the top of the Big 12.   Final: 24-14 Ok-State with the Win.   Oklahoma State is beginning to creep into the Top of the Big 12 and potentially a playoff appearance.   I'm probably pushing the playoff just a little. 
• Iowa State v. Kansas  This is an Iowa State home game.   It should be over by half.   51-7 Iowa State wins and goes into the bye week with momentum.