As the college football season hits its peak, the Iowa State Cyclones are set to take on the Kansas State Wildcats on November 30, 2024, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa. This crucial game marks the end of the regular season and has major stakes for the Big 12 Championship. With both teams fighting for a chance to compete in the conference title game, fans can look forward to an exciting atmosphere and a tough showdown on the field.
Game Details
Date & Time: November 30, 2024, at 6:30 PM CT
Venue: Jack Trice Stadium, Ames, Iowa
Teams:
Iowa State Cyclones (9-2, 6-2 Big 12)
Kansas State Wildcats (8-3, 5-3 Big 12)
Historical Context
This epic rivalry goes way back to 1894, making it one of the oldest matchups in college football. Right now, the Cyclones are ahead in the series with a record of 53-50-4. They’ve won two out of the last three games, including an exciting victory last season in Manhattan, where they triumphed 42-35 despite some tough weather. Abu Sama, the Cyclones’ star running back, really shined with an incredible 276 rushing yards, proving just how talented he is.
Current Season Performance
Iowa State Cyclones
The Cyclones are coming into this game on a high after a tough battle with the Utah Utes, where they pulled off a thrilling 31-28 win. Some of the standout players who helped make this happen include:
Rocco Becht (QB): The second-year quarterback has really stood out this season, hitting 20 out of 38 throws for 256 yards, with one touchdown and one pick against Utah. His knack for reading defenses and making fast decisions has been crucial.
Abu Sama (RB): Sama has made a name for himself as one of the best running backs in the country, consistently breaking tackles and slipping through holes in the defense.
The Cyclones are putting up an average of 31.4 points each game, and their defense is holding opponents to just 19.5 points. A big part of their success comes from their skills in forcing turnovers, with a total of 19 this season.
Kansas State Wildcats
Kansas State heads into this game riding high after a strong showing against the Cincinnati Bearcats, where they clinched a solid 41-15 win. Notable players to watch include:
Avery Johnson (QB): The energetic freshman quarterback racked up 147 passing yards, hitting 13 out of 23 throws with two touchdowns and no picks against Cincinnati. Johnson’s ability to run and pass keeps defenses on their toes.
DJ Giddens (RB): Giddens really showed off his skills with a fantastic game, racking up 143 yards on only 15 carries and scoring multiple touchdowns.
The Wildcats are putting up around 30.6 points each game, and their defense is giving up about 21.6 points on average.
Special Teams
Special teams can really tip the scales in tight matchups:
Iowa State has been consistent in their kicking and punting game all season long.
Kansas State’s special teams have been doing well, but they need to steer clear of any blunders that might hand Iowa State an edge.
Both teams are coming into this game with a lot on the line and some serious momentum, so get ready for an intense battle packed with smart strategies and athletic skill. Iowa State has a bit of an advantage thanks to playing at home and their solid defense.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Iowa State Cyclones 27 – Kansas State Wildcats 24
This forecast takes into account what both teams can do and how they’ve been playing lately, especially with so much on the line for their Big 12 Championship hopes. Fans are in for an epic night of college football as these rivals clash under the bright lights!