Alright - I've gotta unload my thoughts:
1) listening to that Iowa Everywhere "Legends & Listeners" smh... Typical arrogant Squawkeyes. I loved the line about how they were "disappointed" in UNI's performance. Then followed it up with moaning about how they've gotta get their QB ready for their gauntlet of a B10 season ahead - unghh Michigan State, sooo brutal. I feel so bad form them that they have such a hard, tough schedule /s. I love how much they're underselling the Iowa State defensive line and the running backs. That should be a fun surprise for them tomorrow.
2) I caution everyone that is thinking our special teams is all of a sudden 100% better. We had one kick off return that was almost botched. I think it was Purchase who signaled that he was going to let it go behind him and then changed his mind and returned it. Nearly a big mistake there. Obviously everyone saw the missed extra point that was part bad snap, part bad hold. Kickoffs were also better, but I'm not expecting to be able to get a touchback every time it's needed. Without a doubt it WAS much better against UNI, but the opportunity to lose the game on special teams still definitely exists. Woody and Newell go into this on their pod - the plan was good, but there was some evidence that they need more reps to get things tightened up.
3) This game is going to come down to Rocco Becht vs. Cade McNamara. One is inexperienced, the other is injured. One aspect I really like is that despite McNamara having experience, he's never played against our style of defense. That will help level things out. On the flip side, we have to have receivers show up and make plays.
4) back to Chad and Doc's serenade to Iowa - They thought Iowa State would not be able to run the ball on Iowa. I'm not saying it'll be easy, but I think we'll be able to run it well enough, probably better than they will be able to run against us. I like Norton's ability to be violent (reminds me a bit of D. Montgomery) and Sama's speed to get to the edge.
5) **** Iowa