Game Analysis Cyclones vs. Gophers

When Iowa State has the ball

There's no secret to what the Cyclones want to do: Get the ball in the hands of tailback Alexander Robinson. The 1,000-yard rusher is recovered from groin and shoulder injuries and feeling fresh. He and Minnesota safety Kim Royston were childhood friends and will be looking to get the better of one another. The Golden Gophers' defense is average, allowing 364.2 yards a game. They'll load the box and make ISU beat them through the air, which quarterback Austen Arnaud has to prove he can do.

Advantage: Iowa State.

When Minnesota has the ball

To say this offense has had some difficulties is an understatement. The Gophers are last in the Big Ten in points (21.6) and yards (295.8) per game and didn't score an offensive touchdown in the last two regular season games. Freshman quarterback MarQueis Gray may be able to provide a spark at receiver or in the “Wildcat” formation spelling Adam Weber. ISU will be prepared for everything and is hoping its bend-not-break defense is on point. The Gophers have massive offensive linemen who primarily are used as pass blockers.

Advantage: Even.

Special Teams

Iowa State would love to see one streak continue and another end. The Cyclones haven't had a punt blocked since 2005. That's 237 kicks by senior punter Mike Brandtner. On the flip side, they haven't run back a kickoff for a touchdown since Troy Davis did it in 1994. ISU and Minnesota have solid senior punters. If Gophers kicker Eric Ellestad is inside of 40 yards, he's money (11 of 11). Outside that distance it's a different story (0 of 3).

Advantage: Minnesota.

Scoreboard

Iowa State will have more fan support at Sun Devil Stadium, far outselling Minnesota in the ticket department. This is the Gophers' third trip to the Insight Bowl in four years. Their players won't be awed by anything but will they be motivated? This will be the first bowl game these ISU players have played in. They are stoked to be here and feel this game could be a boost for the program under Paul Rhoads' leadership.

Prediction: Iowa State 23, Minnesota 16.

- Eric Petersen