Iowa State Cyclones vs. Houston Cougars 9/28/24 – With the dates further approaching late September, it comes a time when the undefeated Iowa State Cyclones (3-0) make preparations to head for their College Football Week 5 clash against the in-form Houston Cougars (1-3). The clash is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, 2024, at TDECU Stadium, where all the expectations of great football action and fruitful wagering on top-tier online betting websites will be met.
Iowa State Cyclones vs. Houston Cougars 9/28/24
| When: | Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | TDECU Stadium |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cyclones | -12.5 (-110) | 43 over (-110) | -650 |  |
| Cougars | +12.5 (-110) | 43 under (-110) | +460 | |
| ||||
Game 4
🌪️🚨🌪️ pic.twitter.com/kiEKaWByKP
— Iowa State Football (@CycloneFB) September 23, 2024
The Cyclones enter the game as heavy favorites, evidenced by a -650 moneyline, reflecting their strong season start. On the other hand, the Cougars face significant odds at +460, a testament to their less-than-ideal beginning. With a total points line set at 43, bettors might find themselves considering the trends that lean toward an OVER for Iowa State but an UNDER for Houston.
Rocco Becht QB vs. Donovan Smith QB
This season has seen Rocco Becht deliver an impressive performance for Iowa State with a 68.4% completion percentage and 743 passing yards. Most importantly, he has been outstanding in hitting the deep targets, reflected by his average of 9,4 (y/a) and a length of 75. Although under duress at times with two interceptions and numerous times getting sacked, the passer rating of 167.4 clearly shows how efficient Rocco is and how well he can run the Cyclones’ offense against different defenses.
On the other hand, Donovan Smith of Houston has had a more challenging year, having completed 65.3% of his attempts with 610 yards while throwing 610 yards worth of passes. This average of 6.4 yards per throw would point to a more conservative offense, perhaps the result of the offensive line that has already allowed 11 sacks – Smith has lost 81 yards on the ground due to those. These challenges affecting his mental game have not helped his cause, reflected in his losing passer rating of 117.7. Smith will be going up against a very tough Iowa State defense, which will be a feat for him. His team will need all the help he can give them to pull the upset.
Explosive Plays on the Horizon for Iowa State
Iowa State’s offensive prowess isn’t just through the air. Abu Sama III and Jaylin Noel have been integral to their ground and receiving game, respectively. With 124 rushing yards on 29 carries, Sama may not have found the end zone yet, but he offers a steady option out of the backfield. On the other hand, Noel is a significant deep threat with 317 receiving yards on 15 catches, averaging a whopping 21.1 yards per reception. His ability to stretch the field will be something the Cougars’ defense must key in on if they have any hopes of containing this high-powered Cyclone offense.
Houston’s Counterattack Potential
While the Cougars’ overall team performance has been lackluster, individuals like Re’Shaun Sanford II and Joseph Manjack IV have shown flashes of brilliance. Sanford has rushed for 166 yards at an impressive average of 5.2 yards per carry, indicating his ability to break out for significant gains. Similarly, Manjack’s 146 receiving yards come from just 10 receptions, suggesting his crucial role in Houston’s strategy to exploit the Iowa State secondary with high-impact plays.
Trends
Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends
The Cyclones have been a solid bet, especially ATS, showcasing a perfect 5-0 in their last five road games. Additionally, their tendency to push the total OVER in four of their last five games could indicate a strategy that favors aggressive, high-scoring affairs. These trends could be vital for bettors looking at the spread and total points.
Houston Cougars Betting Trends
Contrastingly, Houston has struggled both SU and ATS, particularly against Big 12 opponents, with a 2-12 record in their last 14 encounters. Their consistent underperformance in recent games, including five straight, should be a critical consideration for under bettors, emphasizing their challenges in scoring.
Iowa State Cyclones vs. Houston Cougars Betting Prediction
Iowa State, looking at the present circumstances and statistics, looks set to sustain its supremacy for some time to come, and as such, would be the safest choice for both SU and ATS. Their effective offensive plays and tendency to score when it matters the most should break down the Cougars’ defense and lead them to another great offensive game.
Bettors wishing to look at props might do well considering Rocco Becht for an over-under number of passing yards prop due to the explosive way he has started out the season. But looking at the total going OVER seems very enticing, especially when Iowa State is the team at play. Today’s match up should be considered for free college football predictions today, since the Cyclones have been able to cover the spread more often than not.
Score Prediction: Iowa State 34, Houston 17.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: September 24, 2024
Last updated: March 31, 2025