March Madness is heating up, and we’ve got a thrilling Big 12 showdown between the Iowa State Cyclones and the BYU Cougars at the T-Mobile Center. With both teams riding strong regular seasons, this game has all the makings of a classic. Iowa State comes in with a 24-8 record, while BYU isn’t far behind at 23-8. The Cyclones will look to get revenge after dropping a close one to the Cougars earlier this month, while BYU aims to extend its eight-game winning streak. Can the Cyclones bounce back, or will the Cougars keep rolling? Stay tuned as we break down the best Free NCAAB winning predictions for this matchup.
| Iowa State Cyclones vs BYU Cougars Game Info | |
| When: | Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | T-Mobile Center |
| TV: | ESPN2/ESPN+ |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Iowa State Cyclones (24-8) vs. BYU Cougars (23-8)
Iowa State has had an up-and-down stretch in its last five games, going 3-2. They are coming off a dominant 76-56 win over Cincinnati on March 12, a strong bounce-back performance after an earlier loss to BYU. Before that, they took care of Kansas State (73-57) on March 8, showing their defensive prowess. However, their most recent meeting with BYU on March 4 resulted in a nail-biting 85-88 loss, proving that this matchup will be highly competitive. Earlier, the Cyclones also dominated Arizona (84-67) on March 1 but stumbled against Oklahoma State (68-74) on February 25. Iowa State boasts an elite defense, ranking among the best in forced turnovers and steals per game (9.6). However, their offense will need to step up against a red-hot BYU squad.
The BYU Cougars are arguably the hottest team in the Big 12 right now, winning eight straight games and covering in seven of their last eight. Most notably, they defeated Iowa State (88-85) on March 4, proving they can compete with top-tier teams. They followed that up with an 85-74 win over Utah on March 8, keeping their offense in high gear. Before that, they dominated West Virginia (77-56) on March 1 and Arizona State (91-81) on February 26, showing their ability to control games from start to finish. Their biggest statement came on February 22 against Arizona, where they pulled off a 96-95 thriller. Led by Richie Saunders, who is shooting an elite 51.4% from the field and 43.7% from deep, BYU’s offense is among the most efficient in the conference. However, their defense will need to lock in against Iowa State’s aggressive perimeter attack.
Why BYU Will Win
- BYU is on an eight-game winning streak and has covered in seven of its last eight games.
- The Cougars boast a more efficient offense, averaging 81.4 points per game while shooting 48.6% from the field and 37.3% from three.
- BYU outshot Iowa State from deep (10.8 threes per game vs. 7.4), which played a big role in their last meeting.
- Richie Saunders (16 PPG, 43.7% 3PT) has been on fire and will be a key factor.
- Iowa State has struggled in revenge spots and failed to contain BYU’s high-powered offense last time out.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: Iowa State Cyclones -2.5, Total Odds: 146.5
The oddsmakers have Iowa State as slight 2.5-point favorites, despite BYU’s recent dominance. The total sits at 146.5, reflecting the potential for a high-scoring affair. Given BYU’s recent scoring surge, the Over looks appealing, but Iowa State’s defensive presence complicates the equation. The line suggests oddsmakers still favor the Cyclones’ defensive capabilities, but BYU’s momentum is undeniable. If you’re leaning on a side, the Cougars as underdogs (+130 ML) hold strong value.
Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends
- Iowa State is 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games.
- The Under has hit in 5 of Iowa State’s last 6 games.
- Iowa State is 7-3 SU in their last 10 games.
- The total has gone Under in 16 of Iowa State’s last 20 March games.
- Iowa State is 4-2 SU in their last 6 games against BYU.
BYU Cougars Betting Trends
- BYU is 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games.
- The Over has hit in 5 of BYU’s last 6 games.
- BYU is 8-0 SU in their last 8 games.
- BYU is 5-0 SU against Big 12 teams in their last 5 matchups.
- BYU is 0-5 ATS in their last 5 Thursday games.
Iowa State vs. BYU 3/13/25 Betting Picks
This game is set up to be one of the most exciting matchups of the Big 12 Tournament, with two teams that excel in different ways. Iowa State has a gritty defense, forcing nearly 10 steals per game, but BYU’s offense has been relentless. The biggest factor will be whether Iowa State can contain BYU’s three-point shooting and slow down their tempo. If they can do that, their defensive intensity could carry them to a win. However, if BYU gets hot from deep again, it will be tough for Iowa State to keep up.
Looking at the best plays, BYU’s +2.5 spread is tempting, considering their recent dominance. Iowa State may be favored, but BYU is on a roll and already proved they can beat the Cyclones. The Over 146.5 is also worth considering given BYU’s offensive efficiency and Iowa State’s ability to push the pace when needed.