North Dakota Fighting Hawks vs. Iowa State Cyclones 8/31/24 – As college football fans begin to ramp up their excitement over the 2024 NCAAF season, the North Dakota Fighting Hawks prepare to take on the Iowa State Cyclones in what promises to be an exciting encounter in Week 1—taking place on Saturday, this Week 1 clash promises to be colorful about the fans in the Jack Trice Stadium due to be aired live on FS1 at 3:30 PM ET. Both teams have that thirst to begin the season with at least one win from last season’s records, which renders this one of the best NCAAF picks today.
North Dakota Fighting Hawks vs. Iowa State Cyclones 8/31/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, August 31, 2024 at 3:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Jack Trice Stadium |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
North Dakota Fighting Hawks (7-5 last season) vs. Iowa State Cyclones (7-6 last season)
The North Dakota Fighting Hawks possess more even offensive tactics leaning towards their effective ground game. Last season, running back Gaven Ziebarth rushed for 700 yards and will be instrumental in breaking through Iowa State’s porous defense. Zerba, who wants to run tackles, will be of importance. Also, wide receiver Bo Belquist who had 760 receiving yards, will have to find weaknesses in the Cyclones’ cornerbacks. The Illinois State vs. Iowa duel will similarly hinge on such dynamic offensive players, highlighting the importance of versatile skill positions.
On the other hand, the Iowa State Cyclones have a very capable rushing and receiving unit. After averaging 7.3 yards per rush last year, Abu Sama III is ready to go up against the Hawks’ defense. Besides, with 983 receiving yards last season, Jayden Higgins will be an additional asset to the Cyclones as they will attempt to attack through the aerial route. The Austin Peay vs. Louisville matchup echoes this scenario, where strong offensive lineups look to dominate early in the season.
Simon Romfo QB vs. Rocco Becht QB
Simon Romfo, North Dakota’s quarterback for the last season, may not have strong numbers with just 11 passing yards. Still, his timely and effective decision-making last season will be critical in helping control the game’s tempo. Given the limited number of attempts, Romfo has proven that he can keep his head cool, which would be necessary to face a strong Cyclone’s defense.
Iowa State must also take the season with Rocco Becht, who has been statistically more significant, a passer rating of 150.7 courtesy of 23 touchdowns versus 8 interceptions the previous season. The quarterback’s capacity to reach receivers like Higgins with deep balls is the only way that would help defeat the Hawk’s defense.
When these two quarterbacks meet each other on the field, Becht’s experience and the ability to perform under pressure could very well be the deal maker for Iowa State. Romfo is going to have to make every single play count and will have to be almost perfect for the Hawks to stay in the game. They must capitalize on the defense and pose Becht’s calmness to the clients for them to burst the holes in the hawks’ Defense.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Iowa State Cyclones -5000, Total Odds: 51.5
The odds heavily favor Iowa State with a challenging spread for North Dakota to cover. The total sitting at 51.5 reflects expectations of a moderately high-scoring game, considering both teams’ offensive capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities last season.
North Dakota Fighting Hawks Betting Trends
North Dakota has shown resilience against the spread, especially in games played on Saturdays where they are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 outings. However, their struggle to win outright in recent games, particularly on the road, poses significant concerns about their ability to handle away games against stronger teams.
Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends
Iowa State has been potent at home, with the total going UNDER in 9 of their last 10 home games, indicating a strong defensive performance in familiar settings. Their record in August games, however, shows some vulnerability, failing to cover the spread in their last five.
North Dakota Fighting Hawks vs. Iowa State Cyclones 8/31/24 Betting Picks
By the evaluation and considering the past, it can be stated that Iowa State will be the one on top towards this game. Nevertheless, the spread is appealing but quite risky for any stakeholders. It is not even better. Rather looking towards the total might be the better option. Looking at such trends of both teams, the UNDER seems to be a better and safer option to go for; given the fact that they will be facing Iowa State at its home ground; the team’s defence has been incredible.
In case someone is interested in resolving problems related to direct outcomes, Iowa State should be able to win the game. However, the risk of entering such bets is hardly permissible because of the wide spread. Rather than that, engaging in performance props or focusing on smaller in-game goals could be more cost-effective. This premium matchup reviews of the day predict an Iowa State win but do not guarantee a comfortable margin of victory.