(Arlington, TX) — Saturday’s game between Iowa St. and Arizona St. might be considered the biggest game in Cyclone football history. A Big 12 title is on the line, bowl implications are on the line and an automatic berth in the college football playoffs is on the line, coverage on KSOM.
Neither of these teams were expected to be in this game — Iowa St. was picked by the pre season media 6th in the conference while the Sun Devils were picked dead last. ISU has not won a conference title since 1912 and although they have a share of the regular season Big 12 crown, a win over ASU would be even sweeter. Despite the magnitude of the game, Head Coach Matt Campbell says this week’s preparation has been like its been every other game week
Iowa St.’s defense has been shaky this season but its never been 100 percent healthy. The Cyclones still rank among the lowest in the country against the run but Campbell has admired the veteran leadership in bringing along the younger guys
The job of the defense will be a little easier than expected — Arizona St.’s leading receiver Jordan Tyson will not play this week because an injury he suffered in the second half of last week’s win over Arizona. Tyson has 1,101 receiving yards which ranks 10th in the country. But Campbell says there are still plenty of weapons to worry about
If you ask any football coach, the key to any game is turnovers and Arizona St. is plus 11 in the turnover margin, Iowa St. is plus 9. Campbell has noticed
In early 2021, Iowa St. won in the Fiesta Bowl against Oregon — now another game with a similar type of feel is in store for the Cyclones. A big professional stadium with major implications. Campbell believes his team will be mentally prepared
#16 Iowa St. 10-2 versus #15 Arizona St. 10-2, kickoff Saturday morning is at 11 am in Arlington, Texas, Cyclones Pre Game at 9 am on KSOM
