Oct 8, 2022; Dallas, Texas, USA: Texas Longhorns Longhorns defensive back Derrin Thompson (28) places the Golden Hat on the head of head coach Steve Sarkisian after a 49-0 victory over the Oklahoma Sooners in the annual Red River Showdown at the Cotton Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American-Statesman- USA TODAY NETWORK
Chris Williams, Publisher – Texas 27, Iowa State 14
Iowa State hasn’t been blown out very often under Matt Campbell. It’s a potential trap game for a Texas program that hasn’t really proven it can stay focused yet. Iowa State’s elite defense and struggling offense lead me to believe that the Cyclones could really try to limit possessions in this game. I’m a big fan of Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers (think he’s a future first-pick in the NFL Draft). I don’t see Iowa State winning the game but expect this to be a lower-scoring, ugly slog of a contest.
Jared Stansbury, Managing Editor – Texas 31, Iowa State 17
I just have a bad feeling about this one. I don’t think Iowa State will get blown out, but I just have a hard time thinking the offense will be able to do enough to keep up with Texas’ offense if they’re operating at a high-level. Iowa State’s defense will keep them within striking distance for most of the game, but is that enough for the Cyclones’ offense to go win them the game?
Connor Ferguson, Staff Writer – Texas 17, Iowa State 7
Iowa State’s defense is going to be a key in keeping the Cyclones in this game. I wrote about that out of my bigger story from Tuesday, and I think it’s the only certainty we can see going in. I think there’s a chance Oklahoma turns into one of the worst teams in the Big 12 and I don’t take the 49-0 win for Texas last week as a massive accomplishment – don’t get me wrong, it’s still 49 points in a shutout. I’m intrigued to see how the defense handles Texas’ rushing attack and if the Cyclones can move the ball efficiently on offense. Texas wins in a low-scoring affair.
Jay Jordan, Football Analyst – Texas 23, Iowa State 17
Man, this one is a tough game to pick. I have faith in two things. First, the coaching staff and players are going to have improved upon the lack of rhythm/execution on offense. Second, the defense isn’t going to be boat raced by anyone, even Texas on a hot streak. But the key word is “enough.” Will the offense be good enough to score enough and will the defense be efficient enough to slow down Texas? I can’t confidently say that they will, but I also wouldn’t be shocked if they come out with a win. ISU definitely covers the 13.5 (or whatever it is by the time you’re reading this), but Texas gets its first win over Iowa State since you could head out to watch “A Star is Born” in theaters while listening to the No. 1 song “Thank U Next” by Ariana Grande.
Jeff Woody, Football Analyst – Texas 29, Iowa State 13
Texas is good. When they have a QB, they are good. I think they have solved that issue with Ewers. ISU D will be stout, but I find it unlikely that this is a spot where the offense rights itself. If ISU can hit a big play and win the turnover battle, then they can keep it close. Vegas has a good handle on this team.
