ISU sprint to the finish starts at KSU

After a big win over Kansas followed by a bye week, Iowa State is thinking it’s still alive for a shot in the Big 12 Championship game. Standing in the way this week: Kansas State. The Cyclones haven’t won in Manhattan since 2004. But the Cyclones have won two of the past three meetings, including a 45-0 blowout last season in Jack Trice Stadium.

Keys for Iowa State

Restart the season: The Cyclones have the talent and coaching to run the table. Ideally the bye week gave the team a chance to reset and Saturday’s clash with the Wildcats could give Iowa State a nudge in the right direction

Easy, Breece-y: The Cyclones’ stud running back Breece Hall has started to heat up with three consecutive 100-yard games after an early season swoon. If Hall can get going, it will unlock the Iowa State offense.

Keys for Kansas State

Get Deuce on the loose: Just like the Cyclones, the Wildcats’ offense ticks with their stud running back, Deuce Vaughn. Vaughn only totaled 73 yards his past two outings after going for more than 120 yards in each of three games to start the year

Home cooking: If Bill Snyder can get loud Saturday night, the Cats can get going and the crowd could potentially push Kansas State to the upset.

Prediction

Iowa State 27, Kansas State 16

ZACH BOYDEN-HOLMES/USA TODAY NETWORK Iowa State running back Breece Hall has scored at least one touchdown in 17 straight games, the longest streak in Big 12 Conference history.