CF STAFF PICKS: South Dakota State

Each Friday the Cyclone Fanatic staff will release their predictions for the upcoming Iowa State football game.

Chris Williams – Iowa State 27, SDSU 14

I have to say, I think this line is spot on. I’d put it right at 14 points myself. I think this team is better than UNI was last year. Iowa State should be better too, but it might take the Cyclones a sloppy game to be primed for the rest of the season.

Jared Stansbury – Iowa State 38, SDSU 21

Unlike the last two years, I think this staff has a good idea of what this team is going into the season. I expect the offense to come out with a fast start and put up a couple scores early. David Montgomery goes over 100 yards then gets plenty of time to rest up for the Hawkeyes.

Brent blum – Iowa State 30, sdsu 10

South Dakota State lost its two main weapons on offense at the skill positions, plus an All-American center and both of its defensive tackles. I think Iowa State should control both lines of scrimmages. Montgomery should be able to get 5+ yards a carry, look for him to clear the 130-yard mark. The SDSU quarterback is good, but if he has no time to throw it could be a long night.

rob gray – iowa state 38, sdsu 17

Cyclones establish the run game as planned and connect on a handful of big plays in the passing game. Defense contains dangerous Jacks quarterback Taryn Christion and forces a couple turnovers. A workmanlike win on a (possibly) rain-soaked MidAmerican Field at Jack Trice Stadium.

jeff woody – iowa state 34, sdsu 20

South Dakota State is no joke. The game doesn’t feel as comfy as we’d like (but still never feel like you’re going to lose) because there are plenty of new faces in that need some reps to get used to GAME speed. But the talent of ISU’s vets- Montgomery, Butler, Eaton- prove unstoppable in a very good win. A great test and learning opportunity for a very good ISU team.

kevin fitzpatrick – iowa state 31, sdsu 14

The Cyclones lean on the running game all day and grind out a few long touchdown drives. Fans go home happy that ISU owns a career 1.000 winning percentage at Mid American Energy Field at Jack Trice Stadium.

kirk haaland – iowa state 38, sdsu 13

I think the Cyclones will start off hot to jump to an early lead, hit a lull through the second quarter and finish strong to coast to a victory. My biggest interest is in the trenches and if the offensive line can move dudes to create holes for David Montgomery and if the defensive line can dominate and disrupt SDSU for most of the game.

jay jordan – iowa state 23, sdsu 16

SDSU is a solid ball club.  ISU has a tendency to start slow.  ISU must be on their game right now.  Not sure the offensive line puts them in a position to hit the ground running.  A close game that isn’t in doubt due to continued defensive prowess.