United Group Insurance

Iowa State – Iowa Capsule

Sports

September 12th, 2014 by Jim Field

Iowa State (0-2) at Iowa (2-0)

Line: Iowa by 10 ½

Series Record: Iowa leads 40-21

Radio:  Listen for the pre-game show at 12:30 pm Saturday with kick-off at 2:35 on KJAN AM 1220/FM 101.1

WHAT’S AT STAKE

Iowa has looked shaky in winning its first two games and needs a strong showing with a trip to Pittsburgh up next. Iowa State made big strides in a loss to Kansas State last week and could use a confidence booster heading into a bye and Big 12 play.

KEY MATCHUP

Iowa State’s offensive line vs. Iowa’s defensive line. The Hawkeyes front four has been arguably their best unit so far, while the Cyclones have improved up front. Iowa State will need to give quarterback Sam Richardson time to throw the ball, because rushing yards could be hard to come by.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Iowa State: WR Jarvis West: He scored three touchdowns in three different ways last week. Can West be the difference for an offense that’s last in the Big 12 in points per game?

Iowa: RB Mark Weisman: Iowa’s desire to keep Weisman healthy by limiting his early touches might be a big reason why the Hawkeyes are struggling to run the ball to their standards. Weisman could have his breakout game against a defense that’s had issues stopping the run.

FACTS & FIGURES

Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz is just 7-8 against Iowa State. Iowa State’s Paul Rhoads is 2-3…Cedar Falls redshirt freshman Ike Boettger will likely start at left tackle for the Hawkeyes as Brandon Scherff recovers from a knee injury…The Cyclones sold out their first two home games — and their trip to Iowa City will help the Hawkeyes notch their first sellout of the year.