Sep 10, 2026 · 27 min
Iowa State must survive Kinnick before finding its footing
CF PREGAME: Iowa State heads to Kinnick to take on No. 21 Iowa
The matchup turns on whether Iowa State can withstand Iowa’s early pressure, rushing attack, and hostile night-game environment.
- 1Iowa State’s quarterback decisions and turnover avoidance will shape its chances in a loud opening quarter.
- 2The Cyclones face unresolved offensive-line questions while Iowa leans on rushing, defense, and field position.
- 3The hosts predict Iowa to win 23–10 but close on Adlai Lounsbury’s deeply human rivalry story.
Don't miss
Jake Brend shares Adlai Lounsbury’s inspirational medical and football journey, including the support associated with the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital.
The brief
Chris Williams and Jake Brend set the stakes for Iowa State’s trip to Kinnick, where the hostile night atmosphere raises an immediate question: which team must adapt more?
The hosts argue Iowa State must survive the first quarter, protect the ball, and make disciplined quarterback decisions before Iowa’s adjustments and pressure take over.
Iowa State’s offensive identity remains difficult to assess, with creative formations and pulling linemen competing against uncertainty around a new staff and limited preseason evidence.
The defensive answer is aggressive: deny Kaleb Johnson and Iowa’s rushing attack, force difficult throws, win special teams, and avoid surrendering hidden yardage.
After predicting a 23–10 Iowa victory, Jake Brend tells Adlai Lounsbury’s medical and football story, shifting the rivalry from strategy to human stakes.
Featuring
Kinnick Stadium
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