Iowa State visits Baylor in Waco on Saturday, with both teams looking to build momentum in Big 12 play. Baylor’s 34 sacks and strong run defense will test Cyclones quarterback Jaylen Raynor and star runner Aiden Flora, while the Bears will rely on quarterback DJ Lagway and top target Freeman against an Iowa State defense that has struggled to pressure passers. The game airs at noon ET on FS1, with streaming available on FOX One.

By the Numbers
  • Baylor: 5-3 overall, 3-2 in Big 12 play; Iowa State: 4-4, 2-3.
  • Baylor has 34 sacks; Iowa State has 10.
  • Flora has 937 rushing yards, averaging 7.2 yards per carry.
  • Lagway averages 278.5 passing yards per game, with 13 touchdowns and 4 interceptions.
Yes, But

Baylor’s defense allows just 15.2 points and 99.4 rushing yards per game, but Iowa State is coming off a 51-49 win in which Flora rushed for 221 yards and two touchdowns. The Cyclones are 0-3 on the road, while Baylor snapped a two-game losing streak with a 41-9 win at UCF.

What's Next

Iowa State’s chances may hinge on whether Flora can find room and whether Raynor can handle Baylor’s pass rush. For Baylor, Lagway’s accuracy and Freeman’s ability to make big plays could shape the matchup against an Iowa State defense allowing 27.2 points per game.

Bottom Line

Baylor has the defensive edge at home, but Iowa State’s explosive offense can make this a close game if Flora breaks through and Raynor protects the ball.