Iowa State enters its November 29 road matchup at Oklahoma State as a hungry underdog seeking to salvage pride at the end of a difficult 2025 season, approaching the finale with the dual pressures of a disappointing record and the desire to demonstrate progress, fight, and discipline in a hostile environment. The Cyclones’ offense has struggled with consistency all season, often hindered by protection breakdowns, stalled drives, and an inability to establish reliable early-down production, making ball security and drive sustainability the core priorities in Stillwater. Their quarterback must rely on smart, quick decision-making—leaning on short-to-intermediate timing routes, checkdowns, and controlled play-action—to avoid the costly turnovers that have repeatedly shifted momentum against them throughout the year. The offensive line, frequently tested and occasionally overwhelmed in Big 12 play, must elevate its performance by communicating effectively, maintaining pocket integrity, and generating enough push in the run game to keep the Cowboys’ defense from pinning their ears back on obvious passing downs. Iowa State’s rushing attack, though inconsistent, can serve as the stabilizer they desperately need if it produces even modest success, as grinding drives and manageable third downs are essential to prevent the crowd from intensifying pressure and forcing the Cyclones into desperation mode. Defensively, Iowa State must emphasize assignment discipline, gap control, and sound tackling to contain an Oklahoma State offense capable of both explosive passing plays and efficient ground gains when allowed to operate in rhythm. The Cyclones’ front seven must generate pressure without overcommitting, maintaining lane integrity and preventing the Cowboys’ quarterback from extending plays that stress the secondary.

Iowa State’s defensive backs, who have faced communication issues and occasional breakdowns this season, will need heightened awareness to avoid giving up big plays, especially against an Oklahoma State receiving corps that thrives in space and can turn routine catches into chain-moving gains. Special teams represent a vital opportunity for Iowa State to create competitive advantages—clean punts, disciplined coverage, and efficient field-goal execution could provide the field-position stability necessary to stay in striking distance. Emotionally, Iowa State must channel frustration into focus rather than resignation, playing with urgency but without the panic that has sometimes led to penalties, missed assignments, or hurried decision-making. The coaching staff will stress the importance of situational football—maximizing red-zone opportunities, minimizing third-and-long scenarios, and maintaining composure after setbacks—to keep the game within reach entering the fourth quarter. Ultimately, the Cyclones’ success depends on executing as the more disciplined team, avoiding the turnovers and early deficits that have shaped their season, and leaning on resilience, effort, and fundamental football to compete against a more explosive but inconsistent Oklahoma State squad. If Iowa State can play clean, controlled, and opportunistic football, they possess a realistic chance to push the Cowboys deeper into a competitive battle and potentially close their season with an upset that restores pride and sets a more hopeful tone heading into 2026.