Leathernecks Provide a Different Kind of Test for Cyclones

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September 15, 2012 by MarkHanrahan20

The Iowa State Cyclones get s bit of a break after passing a couple of early tests to start the season. Sure, last week’s win over Iowa wasn’t pretty, but the important thing is that they got out of Kinnick with a win. Last week I said the keys to the game would be receiver play, containing Fiedorowicz, punting, and playing a solid but not gambling defense. The Cyclone receiver play improved immensely over the first game and showed an ability to run after the catch that hasn’t been seen out of the cardinal and gold since I can remember. While Fiedorowicz got his fair share of catches, I thought the Cyclone secondary and linebackers did a decent job of containing him. It could have been much, much worse, that young man has a ton of talent. Kirby Van Der Kamp had another solid game and the defense was phenomenal. I continue to be amazed by the schemes and execution out of Wally Burnham’s squad.

Against the Leathernecks there is only one key to the game, execution. Execute the game plan and the talent differential will take care of the rest. This should be a good opportunity for Paul Rhoads and staff to get a look at some young players and give the backups the confidence they will need in case they are needed later in the season.

Last week’s PBR Tall Boy goes to….

Jacques Washington. While Jake Knott had the big defensive play everyone remembers, Washington was a beast all day. Jacquez finished with six tackles, a pass break up and a big interception and 26 yard return.

Weekly Pick Seven (4-2-1)

Western Illinois (+38) over Iowa State While I think Iowa State wins this game and wins it convincingly, I think the need to get a lot of people into the game allows the Leatehernecks to get the back door cover. Iowa State by 33.

Iowa (-9.5) over UNI. I think Iowa finally gets some things figured out on offense and continues to build on last week’s strong defensive performance. Iowa by 17.

Florida outright over Tennessee (-2.5). You still can’t spell citrus without UT. Florida by 3.

Kansas and TCU under 59.5. TCU rolls, but neither offense shows much power, Frogs win 31-17.

Louisville (-3) over North Carolina. Charlie Strong has the Cardinals rolling, Louisville wins by 10.

Wisconsin and Utah State under 51. Badgers finding out life without Russell Wilson isn’t easy, but win easy.

Kentucky (-6.5) over Western Kentucky. Wildcats bounce back and win easy, which won’t happen much this year.

Finally, congrats to my cousin Lindsay who’s getting married today!