The lines were all over the place going into Saturday’s Iowa State-North Dakota State matchup. Numerous odds makers predicted a one-possession game, but no one saw this coming: a 20-point blowout featuring NDSU as the victor.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Cyclones lose 2014 Opener to NDSU
The Good: Iowa State looked good on offense and defense, at least for parts of the game. They opened up with a 70+ yard drive to start the season with a touchdown. Quarterback Sam Richardson showed his running game when he took off for a 16-yarder on the first play from scrimmage. Richardson has used his legs in the past, and this is one of the better parts of his game. He needs to improve his pocket passing, but we’ll get to that later. Iowa State’s defense forced four three-and-outs, two of them being back-to-back to start the second half. At times, the Cyclones were clicking, and they can still be a force to be reckoned with this season.
The Bad: Iowa State gave up two plays of over 60 yards each that significantly altered the game’s momentum. They took the life out of the stadium, not to mention the players. What really killed the momentum was the interception that Richardson threw (in NDSU territory, no less) when the Cyclones were threatening to take the lead back . They just can’t have plays that kill drives like that, because ISU is already on thin ice this season.
The Ugly: Iowa State wide receiver Quenton Bundrage and center Tom Farniok had injuries take them out of play during the game. Bundrage is, at press time, listed as questionable, but Farniok reportedly should return to face Kansas State this week. The offensive line is heavily dependent on Farniok, and it was clear when he wasn’t there to lead the line; blitzes weren’t being picked up, which lead to Richardson being rushed and making very poor decisions with the ball. Looking ahead to KSU, Iowa State should have a much better line play with Farniok active.
Iowa State’s Farmageddon rivalry game against Kansas State should be a good matchup at Jack Trice Stadium. We know the Cyclones can start the game, let’s see if they can finish it.
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