ALAMO BOWL -- We're missing the best of a number that opened north of the key +3, but it's moving in the correct direction, Iowa State won seven of eight down the stretch and slowed down high-powered offenses such as Will Grier-led West Virginia, Texas Tech and Baylor. Its gritty defense and ball-control offense are the perfect foil for a Washington State club that exceeded projections but rarely performs well in bowls under coach Mike Leach. Look for the Cyclones to come out on top Friday.

ALAMO BOWL -- Things did not work out as the Cougars planned this season. But all is not lost as they can end on a high note against Iowa State. The last time we saw the Cyclones, they had to rally to knock off Drake of the FCS. Defensively, the Cyclones can match up against the Cougars. But I don't think they have the offense to keep pace for four quarters. Lay the field goal.

ALAMO BOWL -- Washington State coach Mike Leach’s bowl slump -- one straight-up win in his last five -- is offset by the Cougars’ stellar 10-2 ATS record this season. The second setback was a recent loss in weather not fit for man nor beast, and QB Gardner Minshew should thrive indoors at the Alamodome as the Cougars crank up their passing attack. Iowa State boasts the stingiest Big 12 defense for points allowed, but an offense dragged down by a No. 114 ranking in yards per carry cannot produce enough points to keep pace. The Cyclones closed the regular season with four straight ATS defeats.

ALAMO BOWL -- Washington State had a Pac-12 title and a spot in a New Year's Six bowl game in its sights before blowing it against rival Washington in the regular season finale. Iowa State, meanwhile, won seven of its final eight and enters the postseason with a lot of confidence and momentum after already upsetting Oklahoma State and West Virginia this season. The data strongly points to the Cyclones in this one.