Iowa State preview
Well folks, the Missouri Tigers are one win away from being crowned the Big 12 North Division Champions. That's right, I said it. They are ONE win away from being crowned division champs and competing in the Big 12 Championship in Kansas City on December 6. After getting blown out by Texas on October 18, Missouri fans were doubting if this was still possible. If Missouri can beat Iowa State this weekend, than they clinch at least a 3-way tie with Kansas and Nebraska for the division. It will then go down to the highest BCS ranking, which will likely be MU. However, that scenario will only be possible if Kansas defeats their two remaining opponents, Texas and Missouri, which is highly unlikely. If Kansas loses to either of those teams, than MU clinches an outright championship.
The Tigers remain extremely healthy for this part of the season, with senior tight end Chase Coffman having the only injury for the Tigers. Coffman was unable to play last week with a sprained toe, but is listed as probable for this week.
Iowa State has struggled for most of the season. They are 2-8 and near the bottom of the Big 12 in nearly every category. Missouri won't be worrying about that though, as Ames, Iowa is never an easy place to visit for the Tigers. The last three games in Ames have all been decided by seven points or fewer. Last year, Iowa State came to Columbia and nearly pulled off the upset against the Tigers, playing right with Missouri until the fourth quarter.
While this game will be closer than the experts think, Missouri will defeat the Cyclones and clinch their second consecutive Big 12 North crown.
Prediction: Missouri-35, Iowa State-17