As Michigan State prepares for its upcoming matchup against Iowa, the Hawkeyes’ recent victory over Washington, with a decisive score of 40-16, serves as a stark reminder of the competitiveness and unpredictability of college football.

Washington, having recently defeated Michigan, the Spartans’ next opponent following Iowa, demonstrated their prowess and potential. However, Iowa’s ability to dominate in that game indicates the challenge that Michigan State will face when it takes on both Iowa and the Wolverines back-to-back.

In order to emerge victorious against Iowa, Michigan State must effectively utilize its running backs and establish a strong ground game. The Spartans have a rich tradition of powerful running, and this season is no different.

A solid rushing attack can not only control the clock but also open up the passing game for quarterback Aidan Chiles. With Iowa’s defense showing its capability to stifle passing attacks, a commitment to the run game will be crucial in keeping the Hawkeyes off balance and creating opportunities for big plays.

Chiles, who has shown promise as a young quarterback, will need to limit mistakes and turnovers during these crucial games. Iowa’s defense is known for its opportunism, and any unforced errors could be detrimental. He must focus on making smart decisions under pressure, ensuring he doesn’t force throws into tight coverage. Additionally, maintaining composure and being decisive in Chiles’ reads will be essential as he navigates what will surely be a challenging defensive scheme.

As Michigan State looks ahead to its subsequent game against Michigan, the need for a solid performance against Iowa cannot be overstated. Establishing a rhythm on the ground will be key, allowing the Spartans to build confidence and momentum heading into the rivalry matchup. Should they succeed in this endeavor, it could set the stage for a thrilling matchup against a team that has already proven its mettle earlier in the season.

Saturday’s game against Iowa will be a litmus test for Michigan State. By leveraging its running backs and ensuring Chiles plays within himself, the Spartans can craft a game plan that not only seeks victory against the Hawkeyes but also builds a foundation for success against Michigan the week after.

The importance of this strategy cannot be overstated, as Michigan State aims to solidify its standing in a challenging schedule ahead.

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NORTHWOOD, Iowa (KTTC) – One person is dead after a single-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon in Worth County.

According to Iowa State Patrol, around 1:45 p.m., a vehicle was traveling southbound on Interstate 35 in Worth County near the 208-exit ramp. The driver lost control of the vehicle, went into the median, through the cable barrier and struck the bridge pillar.

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Copyright 2024 KTTC. All rights reserved.

The latest college football polls have been released, and Iowa State keeps moving up.

Iowa State improved to 6-0 after beating West Virginia 28-16 on Saturday in Morgantown.

The Cyclones are now set for a matchup at home vs. UCF on Saturday, Oct. 19.

Iowa State rankings update

Where did Iowa State land?

On Sunday, Iowa State checked in at No. 12 in USATODAY US LBM coaches poll. Previously, the Cyclones were No. 13.

Iowa State climbed up to No. 9 in the newest AP Top 25 college football poll. Last week, the Cyclones were No. 11.

US LBM Coaches Poll

Here is a look at the new US LBM college football coaches poll top 25.

1. Texas
2. Oregon
3. Penn State
4. Georgia
5. Ohio State
6. Miami (Fla.)
7. Alabama
8. LSU
9. Clemson
10. Tennessee
11. Notre Dame
12. Iowa State
13. BYU
14. Texas A&M
15. Ole Miss
16. Missouri
17. Kansas State
18. Indiana
19. Boise State
20. Pittsburgh
21. Illinois
22. Michigan
23. SMU
24. Army West Point
25. Nebraska

Schools Dropped Out

No. 16 Oklahoma; No. 17 Utah

Others Receiving Votes

Oklahoma 81; Arizona State 49; Navy 37; Utah 31; Vanderbilt 26; Syracuse 13; UNLV 12; Iowa 12; Texas Tech 9; Liberty 9; Washington State 8; Memphis 4; Louisville 4; James Madison 3; Tulane 2

AP Poll

Here is a look at the new Associated Press college football poll top 25

1. Texas
2. Oregon
3. Penn State
4. Ohio State
5. Georgia
6. Miami (Fla.)
7. Alabama
8. LSU
9. Iowa State
10. Clemson
11. Tennessee
12. Notre Dame
13. BYU
14. Texas A&M
15. Boise State
16. Indiana
17. Kansas State
18. Ole Miss
19. Missouri
20. PIttsburgh
21. SMU
22. Illinois
23. Army West Point
24. Michigan
25. Navy

OTHERS RECEIVING VOTES:

Vanderbilt 68, Nebraska 62, Arizona St. 39, Oklahoma 36, Washington St. 32, Iowa 29, Texas Tech 18, Syracuse 13, Arkansas 13, Utah 7, Louisville 6, Southern Cal 5, Liberty 2, UNLV 1.

Reach Eugene Rapay at erapay@gannett.com and follow him on X/Twitter @erapay5.