ISD Game Predictions: Iowa State
It’s Friday again, and that means one more game prediction for the season. 10-2 was a solid accomplishment for this team, but winning a bowl game is also important, too.
Most question if Notre Dame will be motivated to play in this game. In previous bowls under Brian Kelly, we’ve wondered the same thing. Most of the time it has turned out OK, but what about Saturday?
Mike Frank
A first-time play-caller versus a talented defensive coordinator with considerable time to prepare…that’s usually a recipe for disaster.
Iowa State is a good football team. They’re very well coached. They don’t quit. They play four quarters. They have a very good QB, some talent on offense, and a defense who can cause problems.
Who? Me? Worried? I wouldn’t be me if I weren’t.
This is another culture game for Brian Kelly. The culture he’s built amongst his team will be on display on Saturday. What’s it going to be?
I expect a lethargic start because that’s what ND tends to do in these games. I expect ISU to play emotional, daring…they literally have nothing to lose.
I’ve got to believe pride amongst a talented senior group eventually takes over and ND wins this game. My guess is the first half looks a lot like Stanford and Boston College, and we’re pulling our hair out.
Notre Dame 33 Iowa State 27
John Brice
This is an intriguing line to figure out, as it seems natural to expect that Notre Dame would be a much heavier favorite.
And, frankly, I believe that the Irish should be much better.
Of course, Notre Dame also should be preparing for the Orange Bowl —- but the ACC protected a Virginia team that the Irish soundly defeated.
Is Notre Dame locked in for this game? I think so; believe in the leadership.
Notre Dame 34 Iowa State 24
Christian McCollum
The unofficial debut of Tom Rees as play-caller comes with mixed results.
Ian Book and the offense look smooth at times, but turnovers and red zone struggles allow the Cyclones to stay in the game.
Iowa State quarterback Brock Purdy performs on his biggest stage to date while running back Breece Hall has his national coming-out party.
Iowa State 27 Notre Dame 24
Matt Freeman
Tommy Rees calling plays. What more could you ask for on the final Saturday in December?
Chase Claypool has a career day to go along with 2.5 sacks from Khalid Kareem and a pick six from Troy Pride Jr.
Notre Dame’s seniors don’t want to lose. Plain and simple.
Notre Dame 41 Iowa State 30
Jamie Uyeyama
I think there might be a bit of an adjustment to what Iowa State does on defense. Combine that with a new play-caller in Tom Rees and it may mean there is a bit of a feeling out process on offense for the Irish. That's not ideal with ISU being a second half team, but it may be the reality of the situation.
However, I do think Rees will find his rhythm and his understanding of what will work best for Ian Book will help the Irish put up points in this matchup. At some point as well, the talent edge for the Irish will take over.
On defense I don't expect to see much of a drop off from what Clark Lea's group has done the last five games of the season. I think the Irish defensive line will dominate and that is going to make a huge difference in the outcome of this game.
Notre Dame 31 Iowa State 21