Football

Staff Picks: Oklahoma State Cowboys

Oct 24, 2020; Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA; Iowa State Cyclones running back Breece Hall (28) looks to get by Oklahoma State Cowboys safety Tre Sterling (3) in the second quarter at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sarah Phipps-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Williams, Publisher – Iowa State 24, Oklahoma State 17

A classic, low-scoring Big 12 affair featuring Mike Gundy. Say what? It’s been fascinating to watch this Oklahoma State program’s transition over the years. I’m a huge Gundy fan and he has been a thorn in Matt Campbell’s side for years. It’s rare for an unranked team to be favored over one that’s in the top 10. When that’s the case, it is generally smart to listen to the wise guys. 

Jared Stansbury, Managing Editor – Iowa State 24, Oklahoma State 14

Simply put, I think the Cyclones are the better team and the better team has found its swagger. Iowa State wins this one more comfortably than the final score makes it appear.

Rob Gray, Senior Writer – Iowa State 30, Oklahoma State 24

Jaylen Warren worries me. So does Oklahoma State’s ability to pressure the quarterback. But the Cyclones are playing so well in all three phases right now I find it hard to believe they don’t find a way in front of a sellout crowd at Jack Trice Stadium on Homecoming  — despite recent struggles against the Cowboys. So I’m trusting Vegas as well as the process. 

Jay Jordan, Football Analyst – Oklahoma State 24, Iowa State 23

It is hard to fathom a more even matchup in my opinion. However, the oddsmakers are leaning heavily towards Iowa State. This is a back and forth with turnovers on both sides. I lean OSU because of history and special teams. It is that close.

Jeff Woody, Football Analyst – Iowa State 37, Oklahoma State 31

If Iowa State plays like they played against Kansas State, it’s hard for me to see anyone in the conference beating them (or really even hanging around). But Oklahoma State has been the exception to almost every single trend that Iowa State has had. So for old time’s sake, let’s say the Cyclones rush for a TD in double-overtime to win it after getting a game-clinching interception. 

Bret Meyer, Football Analyst – Iowa State 27, Oklahoma State 13

Oklahoma State has been average on offense so far in 2021. I like the matchup with our defense playing at an elite level. Throw in home field advantage and an offense that is improving. I like the Clones at home.

Todd Blythe, Football Analyst – Iowa State 31, Oklahoma State 24

Okie State is in the Top 10, undefeated, and has made a habit of winning close games this year. The good news is the Cyclone defense continues to play elite football and the offense seems to have hit its stride. As long as special teams can stay out of their own way the Pokes will be heading home with their first L of the season. 

Jared Stansbury

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Jared a native of Clarinda, Iowa, started as the Cyclone Fanatic intern in August 2013, primarily working as a videographer until starting on the women’s basketball beat prior to the 2014-15 season. Upon earning his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Iowa State in May 2016, Jared was hired as the site’s full-time staff writer, taking over as the primary day-to-day reporter on football and men’s basketball. He was elevated to the position of managing editor in January 2020. He is a regular contributor on 1460 KXNO in Des Moines and makes regular guest appearances on radio stations across the Midwest. Jared resides in Ankeny with his four-year-old puggle, Lolo.

@cyclonefanatic