Utah has looked like one of the best teams in the Big 12 through the first three weeks of the season. Now it’s time to find out how well that travels.
The Utes head to Ames for their first road game and Big 12 opener of the 2026 season against an Iowa State team that enters at 2-1. Utah has been dominant through three games at Rice-Eccles Stadium, scoring at least 33 points in every game while cruising past Idaho, Arkansas and Utah State.
Iowa State‘s start has been more uneven. The Cyclones opened with a comfortable win over Southeast Missouri before losing 16-13 at Iowa, but they responded in a big way last weekend with a 55-7 blowout of Bowling Green.
Now comes a much different challenge.
Utah has climbed to No. 15 in the AP Poll and has quickly established itself as one of the early favorites in the Big 12 race. But winning at Jack Trice Stadium is a different test than anything the Utes have faced so far.
For Iowa State, Saturday is an opportunity to change the conversation surrounding its season with a home win over one of the conference’s top teams. For Utah, it’s a chance to prove that what we’ve seen through three weeks isn’t simply the product of playing every game at home.
Utah vs. Iowa State Odds
- Spread: Utah -7.5
- Over/Under: 48.5
- Moneyline: Utah -340/Iowa State +270
Odds as of Tuesday afternoon. Odds are subject to change.
The Biggest Question: Can Iowa State’s Offense Score Enough?
Iowa State’s defense has been one of the best in the Big 12 through the non-conference. They’re in the Top 2 in rushing yards and passing yards allowed per game. And it is the best defense Utah will have seen, by far, this season. However, Utah’s defense has been stout through three games as well, giving up a Big 12-best 8.0 points per game. I have more questions about Iowa State’s offense being able to do enough to keep its defense from wearing down, because eventually, Devon Dampier or Byrd Ficklin is going to rip off a big run or find a big target downfield. And in a defensive slugfest, the war of attrition might ultimately end up favoring Utah.
Utah vs. Iowa State Prediction and Pick
Prediction: Utah 24, Iowa State 13
Jimmy Rogers has exceeded expectations thus far. But now taking on the Utah Utes, even though the game is at home, is next level. Utah has been the third-most efficient offense in the Big 12 so far this season (behind West Virginia and BYU), while also owning the line of scrimmage, giving up the second-fewest sacks in the league so far, while getting to the quarterback with 9 sacks in three games, tied for fourth in the league.
And ultimately, I see Iowa State quarterback Jaylen Raynor being completely overwhelmed in this game. Utah will dare him to beat them through the air. And I looked back on Raynor’s numbers vs. Power 4 competition the last three seasons, two at Arkansas State, and one game this year vs. Iowa. He has an average QBR in those five games of 34.8. The Cyclones defense will do everything to keep it close through three quarters, but I see Utah pulling away late for a double-digit win.
Utah wins. Utah covers.
