Oklahoma State enters Saturday’s 6 p.m. showdown at Iowa State as a 9.5-point favorite, carrying the weight of a recent history that favors the Cowboys. In Week 3 of the 2025 season, Eric Morris’ North Texas squad dismantled Jimmy Rogers’ Washington State team 59-10, a performance that set the stage for this high-stakes Big 12 rematch. The Cowboys are looking to replicate that dominant offensive output, with odds reflecting their confidence in dismantling the Cyclones’ defense once again in Stillwater’s rival’s territory.
Cowboys favored by 9.5 as Eric Morris seeks revenge against Jimmy Rogers
The statistical blueprint for success is clear: turnovers. Last year, Morris’ unit forced five first-half takeaways, handing Drew Mestemaker and the offense short fields that resulted in 410 total yards and four passing touchdowns. Mestemaker, who threw for 211 yards in that blowout, remains the focal point of an attack that thrives on quick strikes and defensive miscues. Iowa State will need to protect the ball and limit mistakes to keep the game competitive against a high-powered offensive scheme.
Cyclones defensive coordinator Jesse Bobbit, who joined Iowa State from Washington State, possesses intimate knowledge of Morris’ playbook. “The scheme is very similar,” Bobbit noted, acknowledging the continuity between the two programs. While Bobbit believes his staff can leverage past film study to identify weaknesses, the Cowboys’ depth and proven ability to capitalize on errors make them the clear contenders in this Week 9 matchup.
Source: Yahoo Sports
