Nov 5, 2026 · 46 min
Iowa State turns a wild win into a tougher test
The Beat Reporters: Can Iowa State Build on Its Wild Win Over Oklahoma State?
Iowa State’s bowl trajectory, Baylor matchup and basketball defensive identity all face revealing tests after a dramatic football win and an unexpected loss.
- 1Iowa State’s bowl outlook improves, but Baylor’s pass rush and defensive front threaten to expose its offensive progress.
- 2Jalen Raynor’s running ability and a steadier offensive line give Iowa State avenues against Baylor’s pressure.
- 3The basketball loss to Memphis raises sharper questions about Iowa State’s defense, guard play and evolving roles.
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The hosts identify Baylor’s pass rush as the clearest threat to Iowa State’s offensive-line progress and bowl momentum.
The brief
Jackson Pence and Rob Gray join Jake Brend to assess what Iowa State’s dramatic Oklahoma State win changes, from bowl positioning to the next test against Baylor.
Baylor’s unusually strong pass rush creates the episode’s central football tension: Iowa State’s improved line must open running lanes while Jalen Raynor helps counter pressure.
The hosts examine the remaining schedule, injuries and emerging contributors, with Aiden Flora’s breakout impact standing out as a major development in Iowa State’s offensive plans.
The conversation then turns to Iowa State basketball’s loss to Memphis, where unusual defensive shortcomings prompt questions about guard defense, turnovers and the team’s identity.
The episode’s throughline is evaluation under pressure: football progress must hold against Baylor, while basketball’s early setback needs context from Memphis’s next results.
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