The search for their first straight-up Big 12 win continues, but the Cyclones are creeping closer to the holy grail. Their last three setbacks came by four, seven and three points -- all of them covers. Two of the conquerors are way better than Kansas. In Lawrence, Iowa State has covered six of the past seven. The offense is rolling, having exceeded 70 points in each of the three losses, and its perimeter defense happens to be the best in the Big 12, statistically speaking.

Iowa State is simply a much different -- i.e. vastly better -- team when at full strength and that has shown in the Cyclones' past three games. They lost them all but only by a combined 14 points. We backed ISU getting 6 at TCU on Tuesday (lost by 3) and absolutely will take this many points at suddenly mediocre Kansas. The Jayhawks did beat Okie State last time out but are 0-5 ATS in their last five games following a straight-up win.

Iowa State is still looking for its first conference win of the season. The Cyclones have played the 13th most difficult schedule in the nation. Iowa State dealt with some injury issues in the middle of the schedule. The Cyclones now have everyone back healthy. They are 3-0 ATS in their last three games with all of their starters back.