Iowa State vs Iowa Odds & Picks Week 2: The Hawkeyes Can Score?

Just when I thought we were getting the same defensive-minded, eager punting Iowa Hawkeyes, they rallied 34-points in the second half to prove they can score. Next up, Iowa (-2.5) hosts its an inner-state rival, Iowa State. After last weeks surprise, I'm steering away from Week 2's lowest total set at 35.5 points. Instead, I'm jumping on the Hawkeyes promising record against the Cyclones for my expert pick. 

iowa state vs iowa Odds

Iowa State vs Iowa Matchup Page, Saturday, 3:30 pm ET

Odds as of Sept. 3 at FanDuel

iowa state vs iowa Picks -- Week 2

Iowa -2.5 (-108) vs Iowa State

Iowa's defense was a wall in Week 1, confining Illinois State just 189 total yards. Like I previously mentioned, the Hawkeyes unexpectedly got the gears turning, piecing together 21-points in the fourth quarter -- cashing the OVER for the first time since October 2023. 

Though Rocco Becht was hopeful for Iowa State in his season debut, completing 76.9% of his passes for two touchdown, getting past North Dakota is a simpler task than what's next on his schedule. 

In the last decade, the Hawkeyes hold a commanding 8-2 SU record over the Cyclones. Their last three meetings have been decided by three-points or more, with two of those occasions being Iowa wins by a score or more. 

*pick made as of Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 4:30 pm ET

iowa state vs iowa Prop Pick

Rocco Becht UNDER 195.5 Passing yards (-115)

I'm already expecting the flame of Becht's noble season opener to be put out quickly. Iowa's passing defense ranked fifth in the nation last season, allowing just 170.7 YPG. The reputation carried over into Week 1 when Tommy Rittenhouse couldn't get around the Hawkeyes, completing 10-of-20 passes for 119 yards. 

After watching Iowa State heavily rely on WR Jaylin Noel (135 YDS, 1 TD) against North Dakota, Kirk Ferentz's group knows who to cover and will shut down the passing options with ease.

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