Iowa State Cyclones at Utah Utes Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 11/23/2024 7:30 PM EST

We have your Iowa State Cyclones at Utah Utes prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Iowa State Cyclones hit the road to face the Utah Utes.

Iowa State Cyclones at Utah Utes Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Iowa State Cyclones -275 (ESPN BET) / Utah Utes +230 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: 7.0 - Iowa State Cyclones -112 (BetRivers) / 7.5 - Utah Utes -124 (FanDuel)
Best Total Odds: 42.5 - Under -110 (bet365) / 41.5 - Over -113 (BetRivers)

Game Info

Date: 11/23/2024
Time: 7:30 PM EST
Location: Rice-Eccles Stadium (Salt Lake City, UT)
TV: FOX

Iowa State Cyclones at Utah Utes Preview

The Iowa State Cyclones are set to face the Utah Utes in a pivotal Big 12 matchup that carries significant implications for both teams. Iowa State, currently ranked No. 22, is coming off a much-needed victory against Cincinnati, which snapped a two-game losing streak. The Cyclones are still in the hunt for a spot in the Big 12 Championship game, but they cannot afford any slip-ups, especially against a Utah team that has struggled this season.

Utah, once a preseason favorite to contend for the Big 12 title, has endured a challenging season marred by injuries and inconsistency. The Utes are on a six-game losing streak and have not won a conference game since late September. Despite their struggles, Utah boasts one of the toughest defenses in the league, leading the Big 12 in third-down and first-down defense, and ranking second in red zone defense. This defensive prowess will be crucial as they attempt to stifle an Iowa State offense led by quarterback Rocco Becht, who has been a model of consistency with a school-record streak of 14 consecutive games with a touchdown pass.

Becht's performance will be key for the Cyclones, as he is closing in on a personal milestone, needing just 187 passing yards to become the fifth Cyclones quarterback to surpass 6,000 career passing yards. His connection with wide receiver Jaylin Noel, who is on the verge of a 1,000-yard receiving season, will be vital against a Utah defense that has been resilient despite the team's overall struggles.

For Utah, freshman quarterback Isaac Wilson will need to overcome his turnover issues to give the Utes a fighting chance. Wilson, who has thrown 11 interceptions this season, will face an Iowa State defense that is the stingiest in the Big 12, allowing just 18.6 points per game. The Cyclones' pass defense has been particularly formidable, with four opponents held to under 100 passing yards this season.

As the Cyclones aim to keep their championship hopes alive, they will need to navigate the challenges posed by Utah's defense and the high-altitude environment of Rice-Eccles Stadium. Meanwhile, the Utes will be desperate to end their losing streak and avoid their first losing season since 2013. This matchup promises to be a test of resilience and strategy as both teams vie for a crucial victory.

Iowa State Cyclones at Utah Utes Pick: Iowa State Cyclones Moneyline

The Iowa State Cyclones are poised to secure a crucial victory against the Utah Utes, and the moneyline pick for Iowa State is well-supported by several compelling factors. First and foremost, Iowa State's defense has been a cornerstone of their success this season, allowing just 18.6 points per game, the best in the Big 12. This defensive prowess is complemented by their ability to stifle opposing passing attacks, having held four opponents to under 100 passing yards. This formidable defense will be a significant challenge for Utah's freshman quarterback Isaac Wilson, who has struggled with turnovers, throwing 11 interceptions this season.

Offensively, Iowa State is led by quarterback Rocco Becht, who has demonstrated remarkable consistency with a school-record streak of 14 consecutive games with a touchdown pass. Becht is on the cusp of surpassing 6,000 career passing yards, and his connection with wide receiver Jaylin Noel, who is nearing a 1,000-yard receiving season, will be pivotal against a Utah defense that, while resilient, has been unable to compensate for the team's overall struggles.

Utah, on the other hand, is mired in a six-game losing streak and has not won a conference game since late September. Despite their strong defensive metrics, leading the Big 12 in third-down and first-down defense, the Utes have been unable to translate this into victories, largely due to their offensive inconsistencies and injury woes. The high-altitude environment of Rice-Eccles Stadium presents a challenge, but Iowa State's recent victory over Cincinnati, which snapped a two-game losing streak, indicates their readiness to overcome such obstacles.

Given Iowa State's superior defensive capabilities, the consistent performance of their quarterback, and Utah's ongoing struggles, the Cyclones are well-positioned to claim a victory on the road. This matchup is crucial for Iowa State's aspirations to remain in contention for the Big 12 Championship, and they are expected to rise to the occasion against a Utah team desperate to avoid their first losing season since 2013.

Iowa State Cyclones at Utah Utes Top Player Prop Picks

Rocco Becht Over 1.5 Passing TDs +116 (FanDuel)

Rocco Becht has been a model of consistency for the Iowa State Cyclones, throwing at least one touchdown pass in a school-record 14 consecutive games. This impressive streak underscores his reliability and ability to find the end zone, making the over on 1.5 passing touchdowns an enticing proposition. Becht's connection with wide receiver Jaylin Noel, who is on the verge of a 1,000-yard receiving season, further bolsters the likelihood of multiple touchdown passes. Despite Utah's strong defensive metrics, the Utes have struggled to contain opposing offenses during their six-game losing streak, providing Becht with a prime opportunity to exploit their vulnerabilities and continue his touchdown streak.

Micah Bernard Over 69.5 Rushing Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Micah Bernard has been a bright spot for the Utah Utes amidst a challenging season, needing just 120 rushing yards to become the 21st 1,000-yard rusher for Utah. Bernard's ability to break through defenses is evident in his four 100-yard games this season, and he will be pivotal in Utah's attempt to control the game against Iowa State. The Cyclones' defense, while formidable against the pass, ranks 107th in rushing defense, presenting Bernard with a favorable matchup to surpass the 69.5 rushing yards line. Given Utah's offensive struggles, Bernard's rushing prowess will be crucial in keeping the Utes competitive, making the over a strong play.

Jaylin Noel Over 77.5 Receiving Yards -114 (FanDuel)

Jaylin Noel has been a key target for Rocco Becht, amassing 935 receiving yards this season and standing on the cusp of a 1,000-yard campaign. His recent performances, including two games with over 150 receiving yards in the last four outings, highlight his explosive potential and chemistry with Becht. Facing a Utah defense that, despite its resilience, has been unable to fully contain opposing offenses during their losing streak, Noel is well-positioned to have another standout performance. With Becht's consistent passing and Noel's ability to make big plays, the over on 77.5 receiving yards is a compelling choice.