The fact that ESPN’s College GameDay is headed to Ames for this weekend’s game might spell trouble for the Hawkeyes. They are 1-6 when playing where GameDay is being hustled. The only time that they’ve won on the show was back in 2009, when they upset No.4 Penn State in Happy Valley.

The show has never set up shop in Ames. Cyclone fans are guaranteed to be fired up for this game more than they’ve been in past seasons, especially since they’re eager to go 2-0 against in-state opponents. 

Which brings up Northern Iowa. Hawkeye fans are all excited that it took the Cyclones three overtimes to knock off a ranked FCS team two weeks ago. Yet, what they’re overlooking is that the Cyclones did win that game and put up some impressive numbers.

Their passing game was on target. Brock Purdy completed 73 percent of his passes for 278 yards and 2 touchdowns. Wide receiver Deshaunte Jones had 14 receptions for 126 yards. Their defense also had its moments, as it totaled three sacks. 

And though the running game is trying to replace David Montgomery, it still totaled a respectable 185 yards.

The game against Northern Iowa was far from pretty, but the Cyclones have had a bye week to reflect and recover. Their season is just as much in the mix as the Hawkeyes. 

The Hawkeyes have not been in any games that have come down to the wire this season, but the Cyclones have. The line on the game is –2.5 on the Hawkeyes, so Las Vegas does expect this game to be close. Expect the Cyclones to come out on top in their second close game of the season at Jack Trice Stadium.