The Cyclones appeared to be Big 12 contenders before suffering consecutive losses, including one to a mediocre Colorado club. Off a bye week, we expected an inspired performance against a BYU team that could be prone for a flat spot following a win over rival Utah and a team that we don't believe is quite as good as its undefeated record suggests.

BYU is unbeaten, but three of its four conference games have been decided by one score. The Cyclones are unbeaten at home this season and have allowed a total of 34 points in three home games. Iowa State has the rest advantage but are also dealing with a bunch of injuries. However, this line is begging the public to take the Cougars and while they’re the better team, they come off two big victories and top-25 teams have been falling short the past few weeks.

BYU has been playing tremendous ball this season, especially up front on both sides of the ball. They're getting great play from their freshman QB and he's really helped raise the floor of the squad this season. Iowa State started off strong, but the overall wear and tear seems to have derailed what looked to be playoff aspirations. I feel that the wrong team is favored in this one.

This is a wrong team favored situation. Iowa State's defense has been decimated by injuries, and a few weeks ago we saw Cincinnati run all over it. BYU will do the same and will prove too much for the Cyclones.

I'm just going to keep picking against BYU until I'm right at this point. Two weeks ago, they broke my Arizona Wildcats' hearts in double overtime. Last week, the Cougars outplayed rival Utah at home. But now they're going on the road against a well-rested Iowa State team who is 0-2 (both on the road) in October. Look for the Cyclones to bounce back with authority and cover the small spread as a home favorite. Iowa State 26, BYU 17.