Crossing the Goal Line: Predicting the TCU vs Iowa State Football Game

Nathan Cross gives his prediction for the game, and whether or whether not the Frogs cover the spread.

Editors Note: "Crossing the Goal Line" is a weekly column by Nathan Cross in which he predicts the upcoming TCU game. He looks at the point spread, the over/under, and makes a prediction. This is his opinion and should not be taken as betting advice.

Before giving my reasons why TCU will beat the spread, I want to give Bud Clark a huge shoutout. Even though he and the team lost, he still made time for fans and stayed after to sign autographs. Clark even went to find a Sharpie they could use. This is what the game is about; it is more than just football. This is what makes me excited to be a Horned Frog.

Love being at @AmonGCarterTCU win or lose
Thank you @ClarkJadarius for sticking around and signing autographs (even volunteered to go get a marker that worked!)…you made our daughter’s night! pic.twitter.com/ljdiGXvglG

— Roll Toad 🐸 (@Roll_Toad) October 1, 2023

TCU travels to Iowa State on Saturday. The Frogs are favored to win by 6.5 points with an over/under of 52.5. TCU will cover the spread and win. I am also taking the over. Here is why: 

Why TCU Will Beat The Spread Over Iowa State

Frogs Look to Bounce Back

The Frogs are coming off of a disappointing loss, after they were shut out in the second half by West Virginia. The whole team seemed lost, including the special teams. I think it's in the recipe book for a big game against Iowa State. The Frogs will look to have a statement win to show they are not done yet.

Iowa State Has Struggled This Season

The Cyclones have struggled early this season, losing three out of their five games. Their offense has been a hit-or-miss most of the season. They are coming off a big loss to OU, where the Sooners beat them 50-20. The game is in Ames, but I think the Frogs will come in ready to go.

The Frogs Look to Get First Win in Ames Since 2015

The Horned Frogs have struggled to win in Ames, Iowa for several years. TCU has not had a win there since 2015. They are long overdue, so the Frogs will be ready to hand a loss to the Cyclones. 

The Big 12 Championship is Still Within Reach

Even though the Frogs have lost two games, they have only lost one Big 12 game. They are still in contention. Losing to West Virginia makes it harder, as the Frogs still have to play teams like Texas, Kansas State, and Oklahoma. However, if they can pull off wins against them, they will still have a shot at playing in the Championship Game. It is still within reach, and I still have hope that the team can pull It together.

Chandler Morris Will Have a Solid Game

Chandler Morris started well and had the offense moving against West Virginia in the first half. It was a completely different story in the second half, as he seemed uncomfortable in the pocket and rattle. He will look at this game against Iowa State as a rebound game. He will have a solid game in both halves and be more consistent.

TCU quarterback Chandler Morris carries the ball in the game against West Virginia.  / © Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

TCU will win this game 38-14 because of all these factors. TCU has more offensive weapons than Iowa State, and the Frogs will come more prepared. Again, this is just my opinion; anything could happen.

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