The Week 9 matchup of the 2025 regular season features the BYU Cougars traveling to Jack Trice Stadium to face the Iowa State Cyclones. The game is scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 3:30 PM, airing on FOX. Both teams are part of the Big 12 Conference, adding an extra layer of significance to this conference showdown.
BYU enters the game with an unblemished 7-0 record, ranked #11 in the AP poll and #10 in the Coaches Poll. Their recent win against Utah Utes by a score of 24-21 highlights their ability to win close games. The Cougars have been strong on the road, maintaining a perfect 3-0 road record this season.
The Iowa State Cyclones boast a 5-2 record, maintaining a perfect 4-0 record at home. Despite recent losses to Colorado Buffaloes and Cincinnati Bearcats, their solid home performance this season will be a crucial factor. The consensus odds slightly favor Iowa State with a moneyline of -140 and a spread of -2.5.
Iowa State vs BYU At a Glance
- Game Date & Time: Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 3:30 PM
- Venue: Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, IA — Outdoor Field
- Broadcast: FOX
- BYU’s Record: 7-0, ranked #11 AP, #10 Coaches
- Iowa State’s Record: 5-2 with a perfect 4-0 home record
- Odds: BYU Moneyline +117, Iowa State Moneyline -140
The Iowa State Cyclones: Analyzing Their Season and Upcoming Challenge
Offensive Performance
In the 2025 regular season, the Iowa State Cyclones have put up 205 points, placing them 44th in the nation. Their passing game has accounted for 1,695 yards, ranking them 55th, while their rushing game is also ranked 55th with 1,147 yards. Notably, they are ranked 29th in first downs with 151, indicating a consistent ability to move the chains.
Compared to the previous season, their offensive output has decreased significantly. Last season, they scored 435 points and amassed 3,580 passing yards, showing a more potent offense.
Defensive Insights
Defensively, the Cyclones have conceded 133 points, ranking 68th, while their defensive prowess is highlighted by 9 sacks, ranked 20th. Their secondary has been effective with 6 interceptions, placing them 7th, and they have recovered 3 fumbles, also ranked 7th.
Last season, they struggled more defensively, allowing 321 points, which ranked 96th. However, they have improved in sacks and interceptions, showing a stronger defensive front this year.
Recent Game Analysis
In their recent games, the Cyclones have experienced mixed results, losing to Colorado 24-17 and Cincinnati 38-30. Against Colorado, they had more first downs and rushing yards but failed to capitalize on these advantages.
In their matchup with Cincinnati, their passing game excelled with 314 yards, yet they were outperformed on the ground, conceding 264 rushing yards. These losses highlight areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining a balanced offensive attack.
Key Players
Rocco Becht has been a standout at quarterback, with 1,622 passing yards and 9 touchdowns. His performance is crucial for the Cyclones, as he ranks 43rd in passing yards nationally.
On the ground, Abu Sama III has contributed significantly with 481 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns, ranking 54th in rushing yards. His dual-threat capability adds depth to their offensive strategy.
Betting Trends
- SU – Home Games: Last 6 Games (2024–2025) → 6-0 (100.0%)
- SU – After Win: Last 16 Games (2024–2025) → 13-3 (81.2%)
- SU – All Games: Last 27 Games (2023–2025) → 20-7 (74.1%)
- SU – As Favorite: Last 21 Games (2023–2025) → 16-5 (76.2%)
- ATS – Home Games: Last 6 Games (2024–2025) → 5-1 (83.3%)
BYU Cougars Prepare for Showdown with Iowa State Cyclones
Offensive Dynamics
The Iowa State Cyclones are set to bring a strategic offensive game plan into their encounter with the BYU Cougars. They will rely on their ability to establish a balanced attack. This approach ensures the Cougars’ defense will be tested on multiple fronts.
Establishing an early offensive rhythm will be crucial for Iowa State. The Cyclones’ ability to spread the field with passing and rushing options can challenge the BYU defensive ranks. This will require them to stay disciplined and focused.
Defensive Strategy
Iowa State’s defense aims to stifle the BYU offense by prioritizing containment and pressure. Their ability to maintain a solid defensive line will be key in disrupting BYU’s offensive flow. The Cyclones will focus on limiting the Cougars’ key playmakers.
For Iowa State, the defensive backfield will play a significant role in minimizing passing yardage. Keeping BYU’s receivers in check will be a top priority. This will require consistent communication and coverage adjustments throughout the game.
Special Teams Impact
Special teams could be a deciding factor for Iowa State in this matchup. The Cyclones will look to capitalize on any opportunities for game-changing plays in the kicking and return game. Field position will be a critical component of their strategy.
Ensuring precision in field goal attempts and extra points will contribute to Iowa State’s success. Special teams coordination is vital in high-pressure situations, and the Cyclones will be prepared to execute under pressure.
Team Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: Last 18 Games (2022–2025) → 17-1 (94.4%)
- SU – After Win: Last 16 Games (2024–2025) → 15-1 (93.8%)
- SU – Away Games: Last 9 Games (2024–2025) → 8-1 (88.9%)
- ATS – As Underdog: Last 8 Games (2023–2025) → 7-1 (87.5%)
- ATS – Away Games: Last 10 Games (2023–2025) → 7-3 (70.0%)
Iowa State vs BYU Prediction: Over 49.5
The upcoming game between Iowa State and BYU presents an interesting total set at 49.5. BYU has shown strong offensive capabilities this season, averaging 35.6 points per game, which ranks them 21st in the nation. Meanwhile, Iowa State’s defense has allowed 133 points, which ranks them 68th, suggesting potential vulnerabilities against a high-powered offense like BYU’s.
Iowa State has also demonstrated offensive prowess with an average of 29.3 points per game this season. Their performance at home has been particularly strong, with a 4-0 record, which includes impressive offensive outputs. This combination of BYU’s offensive strength and Iowa State’s reliable home scoring suggests that both teams could easily surpass the 49.5 total.
Historically, these teams have engaged in high-scoring games, as evidenced by their past head-to-head encounter that ended 45-13 in favor of Iowa State. This trend of high-scoring outcomes, combined with both teams’ current offensive and defensive metrics, supports an expectation for the total to go over in this meeting.
Given the offensive capabilities of both teams and Iowa State’s consistent home performance, taking the over on 49.5 seems a prudent choice. A projected final score for this matchup would be Iowa State 34, BYU 27, which comfortably exceeds the total set by sportsbooks.
- Iowa State vs BYU Prediction: Over 49.5
- Iowa State vs BYU Score: Iowa State 34 – BYU 27
