Cyclones, Cowboys set for showdown
Get Brock Purdy into rhythm: Iowa State quarterback Brock Purdy was dreadful in the loss to Louisiana, passing for 145 yards and an interception. Purdy passed for at least 241 yards in the three wins that followed. The Cyclones can usually count on a consistent running attack led by Breece Hall. This team is 3-0 when scoring more than 30 points and it usually takes at least 30 points to beat Oklahoma State. The Cyclones need to give Purdy some easy throws early to build confidence and a rhythm.
Win early downs on defense: Beating Oklahoma State starts by slowing down running back Chuba
Hubbard. The Cowboys are young at quarterback with true freshman Shane Illingsworth expected to start. And while he’s played well in three games, he’s still a young player. Iowa State wants opportunities to blitz and confuse the inexperienced quarterback, and that requires stops on first and second down in order to force obvious passing situations on third down.
Keys for Oklahoma State
Make Purdy win: Oklahoma State will feel good about its chances to stay undefeated if Iowa State is forced to throw the ball 35 to 40 times in the game because the Cyclones want to establish the run and limit the amount of possessions. The key for the Oklahoma State defense is to make Purdy feel like he must win the game by himself because that is sure to lead to mistakes. The Cowboys can’t let Iowa State’s offense achieve balance.
Stick to the script: Iowa State proved its resilience in the comeback win over Oklahoma. The Cowboys should learn a lesson from that game and keep their foot on the gas offensively even if leading in the second half. Oklahoma State should be able to score on the Cyclones if Illingsworth, Hubbard and wide receiver Tylan Wallace are allowed to make plays and take chances. Playing conservatively won’t benefit Mike Gundy’s squad.