Texas at Iowa State Predictions & Pick Against The Spread – Saturday, Nov. 18

Iowa State Cyclones' running back Abu Sama (24) celebratews with teammates after a touchdown during the third quarter in the Jack Trice Legacy Game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023, in Ames, Iowa.
Image Credit: Nirmalendu Majumdar/Ames Tribune / USA TODAY NETWORK

The No. 7 Texas Longhorns (9-1) are set to face the Iowa State Cyclones (6-4) in a Big 12 showdown at Jack Trice Stadium. With Texas on a four-game winning streak and Iowa State coming off a decisive victory, this matchup is poised to be a clash of momentum.

Texas Longhorns vs. Iowa State Cyclones Odds Info

Moneyline: Texas Longhorns -300 (BetMGM) / Iowa State Cyclones +250 (BetRivers)
Spread: +7.5 / Texas Longhorns -105 (BetMGM) / Iowa State Cyclones -110 (PointsBet)
Total: 47.0 / -110 (BetRivers) / -110 (BetRivers)

Game Info

Date: Saturday, Nov. 18
Time: 08:00 PM
Location: Jack Trice Stadium – Ames, IA
TV: FOX

Texas Longhorns Betting Trends

  • On the road, Texas Longhorns are 4 and 0 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Texas Longhorns are 4 and 5.
  • Against the spread on the road, Texas Longhorns are 2 and 2.

Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends

  • At home, Iowa State Cyclones are 3 and 2 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Iowa State Cyclones are 6 and 4.
  • Against the spread at home, Iowa State Cyclones are 3 and 2.

Texas Longhorns vs. Iowa State Cyclones Predictions

The Texas Longhorns are soaring high with a 9-1 record, eyeing a spot in the College Football Playoff. Their offense, led by sophomore quarterback Quinn Ewers, has been a force to reckon with, especially with the emergence of freshman running back CJ Baxter, who steps in for the injured Jonathon Brooks. The Longhorns have been putting up impressive numbers, averaging over 33 points per game, and their defense has been equally stout, holding opponents under 100 yards rushing in their last four games.

Iowa State, on the other hand, has had a season of ups and downs but has shown resilience with a recent surge, winning four of their last five games. Freshman quarterback Rocco Becht and running back Abu Sama III have been key contributors to the Cyclones’ offense, which exploded for 45 points in their last outing against BYU. However, they face a tough challenge against a Texas defense that has been aggressive in their play calls and has managed to keep their opponents’ scoring in check.

This game will feature a critical matchup between the Texas receiving corps, including Adonai Mitchell and Xavier Worthy, and an Iowa State secondary that has racked up 15 interceptions this season. The battle in the trenches will also be pivotal, as Texas has not allowed a sack in the last two games, while Iowa State’s defensive line will be looking to disrupt Ewers and the Longhorns’ offensive rhythm. With both teams fighting for their postseason aspirations, this game could very well come down to which side can assert their will and execute under pressure.

Texas at Iowa State Pick Against The Spread

The Texas Longhorns have been on a tear recently, with a four-game winning streak that has showcased their ability to dominate on both sides of the ball. Their offense, led by Quinn Ewers, has been consistently putting up points, and their defense has been a brick wall against the run. With the spread set at +7.5 in favor of Texas, the Longhorns’ recent form suggests they have the firepower and defensive prowess to cover the spread against Iowa State. The Cyclones have been impressive in their own right, but Texas’ high-scoring offense and stingy defense give them the edge in this matchup, especially considering their performance against the spread on the road this season (2-2).

While Iowa State’s secondary is formidable, the Longhorns’ receiving corps presents a significant challenge that could tilt the game in Texas’ favor. Additionally, Texas’ ability to protect their quarterback and prevent sacks will be crucial in maintaining their offensive momentum. Considering these factors, along with the Longhorns’ aspirations for a playoff spot and their need to impress the committee, it’s likely that Texas will not only win but also cover the spread. The Cyclones have struggled against ranked teams this season, and facing a high-caliber Texas team will be a tough hurdle to overcome, making Texas the right pick against the spread.

The Pick: Texas Longhorns -7.5 (BetMGM)