Take The Touchdown

The Thursday night college football slate has two on the menu, with Iowa State hosting Texas while UCLA visits Utah.

The Big XII match up has my interest, with Bovada currently giving the home Cyclones 7½ points. I will gladly take them, as I see the Iowa State having a real chance to win here.

I liked the Cyclones' odds of covering since the number came out earlier in the week, when Texas was getting an unseemingly large 8½ points per game. Now, with the news that Longhorn starter David Ash will miss this game due to a concussion, I really like Iowa State's chances.

Honestly, you won't get much support using the Bovada data tool on the Home page. Many factors there favor Texas. In particular, Texas' recent domination in the series, both straight up and against the number.  

One nugget that does serve Cyclone backers well is Iowa State's 70% win percentage straight up on Thursday and Friday night games over the last several years. That includes their 38-21 win over Tulsa last week on the road.

I think without Ash and being at home, Iowa State will have a very good chance of winning tonight and definitely of covering.

My pick:  Iowa State   +7½

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UPDATE:

Result ... Texas 31 Iowa State 30     Cyclones cover

Steve Soprano is the founder and handicapper at www.premierticketsports.com.