The Bookie of Eli

For the first time in 23 years week 0 of college football features a ranked match up. (22)Iowa State takes on (17)Kansas State in Dublin, Ireland for their annual meeting. A rivalry known as “Farmageddon”, these two Universities have met on the gridiron every year since 1917. Both teams return key offensive starters at both quarterback and running back which should make for an exciting game. Travel is always a major factor and a flight to Ireland will indeed play a role. This article will give statistical analysis of both teams to make the best bets and keep you informed.

Iowa State Analysis:

Key returners: QB Rocco Becht, RB Carson Hansen, NG Domonique Orange, CB Jontez Williams

The Cyclones will be anchored by quarterback Rocco Becht. He passed for 3,505 yards to go along with 25 touchdowns to just 9 interceptions last year for the Cyclones. Running back Carson Hansen will lead the backfield and 4 returning offensive lineman will make life easy for him. Like most teams around the country, Iowa state relied on the transfer portal to fill the holes on their roster. Transfers Xavier Townsend and Chase Sowell were brought in to fill the void left by losing two wide recievers to the NFL. On defense last year the Cyclones ranked 1st nationally against the pass and returning corner Jontez Williams is the best coverage corner in the conference. Their defense last year struggled against the run and getting sacks so nose guard Dominique Orange must have a big game.

Kansas State Analysis:

Key returners: QB Avery Johnson, WR Jayce Brown, LB Austin Romaine, S VJ Payne

The Wildcats, like Iowa State also return a star quarterback with big expectations in Avery Johnson. The junior passed for 2,712 yards and had 32 total touchdowns to go along with 605 rushing yards. The offense will rely heavily on his dual threat ability to replace the explosiveness lost with running back DJ Giddens getting drafted. Receiver Jayce Brown caught 47 passes for 823 yards and 5 touchdowns last year and local freshman 5 star tight end Linkon Cure will make an impact. On defense the top two tacklers from last season return with Austin Romaine (96) and VJ Payne (64). Last year’s team was strong against the run and the linebacker unit will be their primary strength this year.

Betting Analysis:

Safe Bet: 1st Quarter under 10.5 (-135)

Fatigue from travel to Ireland and familiarity is a recipe for a slow start on offense in this game. Both teams have tenured defensive coordinators who historically have allowed less than 1.5 points in the opening quarter of their openers.

Best Bet: KSU -3 (-110)

These two teams are eerily similar, but Kansas State has the more explosive offense and a better defense. As long as quarterback Avery Johnson can avoid turnovers the Wildcats should outlast the Cyclones. Kansas State freshman 5 star tight end Linkon Cure will be an x-factor in Dublin.

Player Prop: Avery Johnson anytime touchdown scorer – Yes (+115)