The Iowa State Cyclones play host to the Baylor Bears on Saturday afternoon from Jack Trice Stadium in the Big 12 opener for both sides. As the reigning conference champs, the Bears are looking to pick up where they left off last season, while the Cyclones bring their own unblemished 2022 record into things. Last year, Baylor came away with a two-point win in one of the best games of the Big 12 season, while the Bears have won six of the last ten meetings overall. Going on the road in conference play is never easy though, while the Cyclones will want to avenge last season's defeat.
Baylor hits the road for their conference opener on Saturday and after taking down the Cyclones last year at home, they'll be looking to replicate that success this go-around. The Bears already have one loss on the season, dropping an overtime thriller on the road to BYU just a few weeks ago. Wins against Texas State and Albany make up the rest of their schedule so far this season and considering the low profile of both of those teams, questions still remain. Last season saw the Bears take advantage of close matchups but the chances of that being the case seem difficult for have happen again. The road proved to be a challenge just a few weeks ago, as it could cause challenges yet again this week.
When it comes to injuries, the Bears continue to navigate some key ones on the offensive side of things. A trio of talented players is listed as questionable for the weekend, all of which will want their status to be kept track of before kickoff. Ben Sims (head) and Monaray Baldwin (head) are key receivers that the Bears will want in the lineup, while Taye McWilliams (undisclosed) could cause some issues when it comes to the depth at running back.
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GAME 3 | ?? ??exas State#SicEm | #PersonOverPlayer pic.twitter.com/EFz0E5Li3i
— Baylor Football (@BUFootball) September 20, 2022
On the offensive end, everything starts with the ground game for this group. Richard Reese leads the way at 7.0 yards per carrying and five touchdowns, while the depth at the position gives this team the ability to wear down opponents. They rank 15th nationally in rushing yards per game and 16th in points per game, though Iowa State's defense is likely to be more difficult to navigate on the ground than two of their three opponents. Blake Shapen turned quite a few heads last year and this could be the game where the ball is in his hands quite a bit and he's forced to make plays. If he can take care of the ball, Baylor could find crucial balance in this one.
Defensively, the Bears have been stout yet again. On the road, they only allowed 26 points in overtime to BYU, though last year saw them struggle to slow down the Cyclones in their meeting. Much like the case on the offensive end, controlling the ground will be key in this on e. What this game really hinges on is if Baylor can force turnovers and gain some extra possessions. Matt Jones (17 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 1 PD) is the leader on the defensive side and if his name gets called upon quite a bit, it'll be great news for the Bears.