Match Analysis: Iowa State Cyclones vs South Dakota Coyotes – Prediction
Match Details
- Date: 2025-08-30
- Time: 7:30 PM UTC
- Location: Jack Trice Stadium, Ames, Iowa
Game Overview
The Iowa State Cyclones, ranked No. 22, host the South Dakota Coyotes in the season opener. Iowa State enters the game with a 1-0 record after a close 24-21 win in Dublin. South Dakota, a top 5 FCS team, also starts the season fresh. The game features a strong FBS vs. FCS matchup with Iowa State heavily favored due to higher competition level and home advantage.
Key Factors to Consider
- Iowa State showed solid team performance in their opener with a close victory and no losses so far this season, currently on a 1-0 streak. South Dakota is a strong FCS team, ranked No. 5 in AFCA Coachesโ Poll, undefeated but with less competitive schedule strength.
- There is limited recent historical data between Iowa State and South Dakota as they compete in different divisions and conferences. Iowa Stateโs FBS level and recent ranking (No. 22) edge out South Dakotaโs FCS status.
- No significant injury reports for either team are available from recent sources ahead of the game, indicating both teams likely at near full strength.
- The game is at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, giving Iowa State home-field advantage. Weather and external disruptions are not reported as factors. Early season form and national television coverage may increase Iowa Stateโs motivation.
- Iowa State starts the season with top 25 rankings and a strong desire to build momentum in their conference. South Dakota aims to prove competitiveness against an FBS team on the road to enhance their profile.
Odds and Predictions
| Category | Odds | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | Iowa State Cyclones: -780, South Dakota Coyotes: 530 | Iowa State Cyclones | โ โ โ โ โ 92% |
| Spread | Iowa State Cyclones: -16.5 (-105), South Dakota Coyotes: +16.5 (-115) | Iowa State Cyclones to cover -16.5 | โ โ โ โ โ 85% |
| Over/under | Over: 47.5 (-110), Under: 47.5 (-110) | Over 47.5 points | โ โ โ โโ 60% |
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
| Market | EV Pick |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Iowa State Cyclones 2% |
| Spread | N/A |
| Over/Under | Over 47.5 15% |
๐ฅ Best Value Pick: Over 47.5 at 15% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 16% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Iowa State is strongly favored to win due to superior division status, home advantage, and stronger schedule. Expect the Cyclones to win comfortably but not to underestimate South Dakotaโs competitiveness.
Predicted Score: Iowa State Cyclones 35 – 14 South Dakota Coyotes