
The Iowa State Cyclones (5-2, 3-1 Big 12) continue to thrive under Matt Campbellās disciplined approach, while the BYU Cougars (4-3, 2-2 Big 12) roll into the matchup with freshman signal-caller Bear Bachmeier and a defense that flashes promise but lacks consistency.
Iowa Stateās balance and physicality at home make them a tough out, but BYUās tempo and vertical passing attack can still flip the script in a hurry. Expect a raucous atmosphere in Jack Trice Stadium as both teams battle for Big 12 positioning.
Oddsmakers list Iowa State as a modest favorite (around ā6.5) with the total hovering near 51.5. Given those numbers, the best value lies in player props, not the spread ā here are four worth targeting.
Matchup: BYU Cougars at Iowa State Cyclones Location: Jack Trice Stadium (Ames, IA) Kickoff: Saturday, 8:00 PM ET Spread (estād): Iowa State ā6.5 Total (estād): 51.5
Becht has quietly become one of the Big 12ās more efficient quarterbacks, returning in 2025 as Iowa Stateās established starter. BYUās secondary has given up multiple 300-yard passing games this season and remains vulnerable to tempo and vertical threats. Expect Becht to attack early and often and surpass 245 yards in front of the home crowd.
Bachmeier, true freshman starting quarterback at BYU, brings high upside and dual-threat ability.Ā Iowa Stateās defense will bring pressure, but BYUās tempo and fresh arm should provide red-zone chances. Betting on the freshman to clear 1.5 passing TDs makes sense in a back-and-forth contest.
Higgins has emerged as Iowa Stateās go-to target, leading in yards per catch and total receiving production. With BYUās defensive backfield prone to giving up big plays, Higgins should rack up volume and cross the 74-yard mark with relative comfort.
Both offenses can score, but Iowa Stateās defense and BYUās growing pains make the Under compelling. Campbellās squad plays methodical football, and the freshman at BYU may force mistakes. If one team jumps ahead, clock management could dominate the second half. Lean Under 51.5.
The best approach: pair Becht Over with Higgins Over for the Iowa State passing stack. Bachmeierās touchdown prop gives BYU value in case of an upset, while the Under 51.5 provides balance in case of a slower-paced contest or defensive heavy script.
Final Score Prediction: Iowa State 27, BYU 20 Favorite Props: Becht Over, Higgins Over, Bachmeier Over TDs, Under 51.5

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