STATE OF PLAY

HAWKEYES LOOK TO AGAIN WIN THE BATTLE OF IOWA VS. CYCLONES

Keys for Iowa

Stretch Iowa State’s

defense: Iowa State narrowly escaped a devastating upset against Northern Iowa in its Aug. 31 opener, but its defense showed fine form in the 29-26, triple-overtime win. Iowa State’s front seven surrendered just 34 rushing yards on 31 carries against the Panthers. Iowa pride itself on a consistent ground game and averaged 5 yards a carry for 194 yards while thumping Rutgers last week.

Look to Stanley: Much like Iowa State relies on its defense to bail the team out of tight situations, Iowa has its own ace in senior quarterback Nate Stanley. The Hawkeyes don’t put up video-game numbers like some offensive juggernauts, but Stanley has been a steady star this season, completing nearly 64% of his passes for 488 yards, six touchdowns and no interceptions in two games.

Keys for Iowa State

Seek redemption: The Cyclones haven’t wrested the Cy-Hawk Trophy from their rivals’ hands in four years and haven’t won in Ames since 2011. A year ago in Iowa City, the Hawkeyes prevailed 13-3. Iowa State’s defense held Iowa’s potent offense to 271 total yards, but the strong defensive effort was not enough

overcome the Cyclones’ offensive shortcomings. Different looks on

offense: The Cyclones have the challenge of replacing their two top playmakers from a year ago in leading rusher David Montgomery and receiver Hakeem Butler. Quarterback Brock Purdy has found success connecting with wideout Deshaunte Jones, who caught 14 passes for 126 yards in Iowa State’s opener and was dangerous in space, logging 100 yards after the catch.

Prediction

Iowa 27, Iowa State

21: ISU hopes to snap its losing streak but might lack the tools to do so.

[MATTHEW PUTNEY/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS] Iowa wide receiver Tyrone Tracy, left, celebrates his touchdown reception with Iowa tight end Nate Wieting on Saturday.