How the Panthers fared last week

Northern Iowa struggled through much of the first half against Minnesota State before running away with a 41-14 win at the UNI-Dome on Aug. 30.

The Panthers scored a touchdown on their first drive of the game, taking just seven plays to drive 57 yards for the score.

Senior quarterback Eric Sanders finished 24-for-31 for 295 yards and one touchdown, while junior receiver Victor Williams led all receivers with 97 yards on seven catches.

Junior Corey Lewis rushed for 79 yards on 15 carries.

What to watch for:

The Cyclones’ rush defense left much to be desired in its most recent game against Kansas State, allowing 363 total yards, including 202 rushing yards, against a mediocre Golden Flash offense.

The Panthers piled up 199 rushing yards against Minnesota State, so the Cyclones could be in for another long day against Corey Lewis, who ran for 79 yards and two touchdowns last week.

Scouting the opponent

Name: University of Northern Iowa

Nickname: Panthers

Location: Cedar Falls

Founded: 1876

Enrollment: 12,260

Colors: Purple and old gold

Stadium: UNI-Dome

NCAA Affiliation: NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (Formerly 1-AA)

Conference: Gateway Football Conference

All-time conference record: 101-36 since 1985

2006 record: 7-4, second place in Gateway Conference

Last year: Iowa State overcame a 21-7 halftime deficit to beat the Panthers, 28-27, in front of 55,518 fans at Jack Trice Stadium last season. Kicker Brian Wingert had a chance to win the game for Northern Iowa, but his 51-yard attempt sailed wide right, securing a close win.

Series: Iowa State leads, 18-3-3