Christian Royston, Sports Editor

No. 2 Iowa State 85, No. 15 South Dakota State 62

As it sits, Iowa State is one of the least upset-prone two seeds in the tournament. The Cyclones’ defense ranks at the top of the nation, and their turnover margin bodes well for early round matchups.

The pressure that Iowa State can put on the ball and whoever has the ball is something that cannot be underestimated. After blowing out three conference opponents, the Cyclones are coming into the matchup with even more momentum than the Jackrabbits, despite the disparity in winning streaks between the teams.

Yes, the Jackrabbits can play with some pace, especially with their solid ball movement. And yes, South Dakota State has proven scorers: especially Zeke Mayo who averages nearly 20 points per game.

Given that, the Cyclones can deal with one player. They have dealt with much better players in the Big 12 throughout the entire season.

When it comes down to it, mid-major teams have not experienced defense anywhere near Iowa State’s defense. Iowa State has found its confidence on offense and the defense is playing with fire, so I do not see a world where Iowa State does not blow out South Dakota State.

Logan Shanks, Assistant Sports Editor

No. 2 Iowa State 78, No. 15 South Dakota State 63

I really hope I don’t embarrass myself when I say this, but Iowa State is going to roll past the Jackrabbits with ease. The Cyclones are coming into this game hot, playing their best basketball of the season which I think will snowball into their first-round matchup Thursday.

Don’t get me wrong, the Cyclones can’t treat this game as a layup. South Dakota State has an efficient offense, headlined by four players averaging double-digit points and a team shooting percentage of 48.3.

If Iowa State doesn’t come out of the gate with its foot on the gas, this could turn into a close game, which, especially in March, no team wants to be in. But I think even if the Cyclones’ offense doesn’t look great in the beginning, their defense will keep them in control.

I don’t think South Dakota State is ready for Iowa State’s defensive pressure, which it has ironed out throughout the regular season and the Big 12 Tournament. A first-round upset between a 15 seed and a two seed has only happened 11 times in the Big Dance, and I don’t see this being the 12th.