Nov 21, 2020; Ames, Iowa, USA; Iowa State running back Breece Hall (28) outruns Kansas State senior Defensive Back Jahron McPherson (31) during their football game at Jack Trice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Powers-USA TODAY Sports
Chris Williams, Publisher – Iowa State 31, Kansas State 21
Always a brutal game for the Cyclones, as K-State has owned this rivalry for the last two decades. Manhattan is a house of horrors for Iowa State. However, Matt Campbell has been checking accomplishments off of his list for years. I view this as another opportunity to do just that. I like the matchup here for Iowa State, believe it or not. K-State moved to a new 3-3-5 defense this year, which Iowa State’s offense sees in practice every day. The Wildcats won’t present their traditional, rugged front that normally gives the Cyclones fits.
Jared Stansbury, Managing Editor – Kansas State 21, Iowa State 20
I’m going to feel uncomfortable with Iowa State going to Manhattan until given a reason not to. Skylar Thompson does enough in the fourth quarter and the Wildcat defense makes a late stop to end this game in a heartbreaking (and somehow probably controversial) fashion.
Rob Gray, Senior Writer – Iowa State 19, Kansas State 13
Going out on a limb to say flags — whether enforced or disregarded — won’t determine the outcome of the game. Special teams will. If Andrew Mevis can boom nothing but touchbacks and ISU’s punting game is passable, the Cyclones should escape from the Little Apple with their first win there since 2004.
Jeff Woody, Football Analyst – Iowa State 27, Kansas State 23
Weird stuff happens in Manhattan, man. Weird stuff happens. Iowa State keeps their hot Octobers going, but an actual wildcat runs onto the field in the middle of the 3rd quarter. The game stops for 20 minutes while animal control gets it under control. After the stoppage, Kansas State plays solid football, but not enough to win. The wildcat is honored after the game with the game ball by coach Klieman, who admires its grit and tenacity.
Jay Jordan, Football Analyst – Iowa State 23, Kansas State 21
Kansas State with Skylar Thompson can beat anybody and lose to anybody. Same old story. Great test to see if the Cyclones are ready to run this thing out or struggle against stiff Big 12 competition. Style of play is always my concern in this game. The defense allows ISU to scrape by.
Bret Meyer, Football Analyst – Iowa State 24, Kansas State 20
The last Iowa State win in Manhattan came on the heels of a 28 point 4th quarter. (Blythe had one catch, didn’t help us at all). Special teams will be key, if we can avoid mistakes and win field position I like our chances. A healthy Charlie Kolar gives our offense a needed boost.
Todd Blythe, Football Analyst – Iowa State 31, Kansas State 28
After 104 games ISU leads the all-time series by just 2. This is always a close game regardless of the form either team comes in with. Cyclones haven’t won in Manhattan since ‘04 when Stevie Hicks ran for a buck fifty and 5’8” (maybe) Todd Miller went full big-body for a late TD grab. A road win against the cats is long overdue.
