This week’s highlight of NCAAF Week 5 games will be TDECU Stadium come Saturday: the Iowa State Cyclones, who are still undefeated in this early stage of the season (3-0), play against 1-3 Houston Cougars. Such disparities in recent form usually come with severe ramifications to those concerned. Iowa State is consolidating a position as one of the powerhouses of the season early in the race, while Houston needs a miracle. As is the case, such a situation is likely to present an exciting game that will earn you some interesting NCAAF winning picks.
Iowa State Cyclones vs. Houston Cougars 9/28/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | TDECU Stadium |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Iowa State Cyclones (3-0) vs. Houston Cougars (1-3)
The Iowa State Cyclones are eager to play their next match after 52-7 whipping of Arkansas State, a performance that has been consistent over their last few outings. They have maintained an impressive record in the spread of -12.5 on the road against Houston, winning all of their five spreads for the last five away games. Their previous games also included a close 20-19 battle versus Iowa, where it was proven that they knew how to finish games tight, and this was important because they would be playing away.
However, the Houston Cougars have not been fortunate with the beginning of their season, as illustrated by their most recent 0 – 34 shutout loss to Cincinnati. Such a form would call for matches such as these to try and restore a bit of that form. Other than their impressive 33-7 win over Rice, they have had nothing but losses the rest of the season, showing the kind of streaky team in a struggle. The Cougars need to take advantage of the fact that it is their home ground and change their current trend of going 2-5 SU in their last 7 games played in September.
Rocco Becht QB vs. Donovan Smith QB
Rocco Becht has led Iowa State’s offense as the most impressive quarterback with relative performances of 743 passing yards, 68.4 % completion rate, and 167.4 passer rating this particular season. His deep ball is accurately thrown, as evidenced by a 75-yard completion he made in the Cyclones’ previous game. Becht’s composure, evidenced by his only two picks and few sacks took, poses a severe challenge for Houston’s defense.
On the other hand, Donovan Smith from Houston has a rough season that has netted him 610 passing yards and a 65.3% completion percentage but a passer rating battered by a season tally of 11 sacks and four interceptions. Smith’s season is also demonstrative of a fundamental problem the Houston cougars had this season, against too physical defenses, which Iowa State will seek to exploit.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Iowa State Cyclones -12.5 (-110), Total Odds: 43
The current betting odds with Iowa State favored by -12.5 points reflect the confidence bettors and bookmakers have in their ability to perform, especially considering their record ATS. The total going OVER in 4 of Iowa State’s last 5 games suggests a high-scoring affair might be on the cards, particularly with their offensive firepower.
Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends
Iowa State has been a strong bet, especially on the road. Their record of going OVER the point total in recent games highlights their scoring ability, which has been backed by a solid defense that’s kept opponents in check, making them a double threat both offensively and defensively.
Houston CougarsBetting Trends
Conversely, Houston has found it challenging to cover spreads, reflecting their struggle to keep up with higher-scoring teams. Their consistent UNDER performance in totals points to offensive struggles, a trend that might continue against a robust Iowa State defense.
Iowa State Cyclones vs. Houston Cougars 9/28/24 Betting Picks
With how things stand now, it appears that Iowa State will not have difficulties covering the spread against Houston. It is a solid team in terms of offensive and defensive stability, so even on the tough road, it is relatively favorable to place a bet on them. It will take quite a lot for Houston to change that and do the unthinkable, which suscitates doubt after their last games.
It would be an enjoyable experience for those making premium picks and parlay bets to take a spread on Iowa state and consider the possibility of pairing the bet with an over on the total points. This is exactly what the Cyclones have done throughout the season and what will make them such a strong pick in the latest week’s action.