Matt Belinson, sports editor (5-2)

Iowa State 28, West Virginia 17

After a massive win at home against Oklahoma State, I expect the winning to continue for Iowa State this Saturday in Morgantown.

West Virginia has the second worst defense pass defense in the Big 12 this season, allowing 248 yards a game through the air. That spells trouble for the Mountaineers.

Brock Purdy has been on a tear these last four weeks, and based on those numbers from West Virginia he could be in for another big performance.

I like the Cyclones to win by two scores and continue stacking wins in October.

Sam Stuve, assistant sports editor (5-2)

Iowa State 27, West Virginia 19

With the way that the West Virginia pass defense has been playing and how efficient Brock Purdy has been in the last four games, this one has the chance to get ugly early. But that’s not what I’m predicting here.

Like I said in this week’s podcast, I see West Virginia being the one with the edge early, with the rushing attack of Leddie Brown and maybe so miscues on the Iowa State end. I think because of that, West Virginia will jump ahead on Iowa State 10-0 in the first quarter.

However, I see Iowa State responding well, outscoring West Virginia 27-9 for the remainder of the game thanks to a mix of solid rushing, passing and defense as the game goes on. 

James Powell, assistant sports editor (4-3)

Iowa State 35, West Virginia 19

The Cyclones picked up a big win against Oklahoma State to get right back in the thick of the Big 12 race. Not only that, but “Brocktober” rolled on with one of Purdy’s best performances as a Cyclone.

Now, they take their momentum to Morgantown to take on West Virginia. The Mountaineers are 1-3 in the Big 12, only ahead of lowly Kansas. They have a veteran quarterback in Jarrett Doege, but nothing else jumps out at you as worrisome if you’re Iowa State.

I think Iowa State picks up a fairly easy win, with Purdy and the offense continuing to roll into an important date with Texas.

Sierra Hoeger, co-copy chief

Iowa State 24, West Virginia, 19

If I’m being honest, I attend football games mainly for the social aspect. I know all the cheers, go through all of the motions, but constantly find myself asking “what just happened?” when a flag is thrown or “what does that mean?” after a referee turns off his mic. So take this pick with a grain of salt. 

I did my research, however and found that one of the most common themes in the games between our beloved Cyclones and the Mountaineers is that the Mountaineers have a strong defense. 

However, I think the Cyclones will relish in the momentum of last week’s energetic win and it will carry over into this Saturday in Morgantown. That and the fact that it’s the second-to-last day of “Brocktober,” so a win is definitely on the agenda.