Iowa State has consistently started off on the wrong foot in its most recent FCS games against North Dakota State in 2014 and Northern Iowa in 2013.

The Cyclones, losing both games, have been outscored 38-28 in the first half and 62-34 overall. 

During the course of both games, the Cyclones had six three-and-outs resulting in -4 cumulative yards.

During the loss against Northern Iowa, Iowa State mustered 410 yards compared to the Panthers’ 457. 

Against North Dakota State, the margin was even wider, with the Bison grabbing 506 total yards and the Cyclones getting 253. 

That makes for a 300-yard margin between both games. 

Iowa State’s season-opening troubles are something particularly new. During the period between 1994 and 2012, the Cyclones lost two games against FCS opponents. 

They’ve surrendered the same amount in the last two seasons alone.