FPI Analysis: BYU vs Iowa State Prediction Plus Updated Big 12 Title Chances and Season Record for BYU
The BYU Cougars continue to dominate the college football landscape, currently standing at a perfect 7-0 after a decisive victory against Utah. Their performance has established them as a strong contender in the Big 12 conference, and they now prepare to face Iowa State in a crucial road matchup.
Upcoming Match: BYU vs. Iowa State
BYU’s next challenge is a game at Iowa State, where the Cyclones have had extra time to regroup after losing two straight games. This matchup is critical for the Cougars as they aim to maintain their lead in the conference title race before facing a tough series of games in November.
FPI Prediction and Game Outlook
According to ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI), BYU holds a 54.3% chance of winning against Iowa State in Ames. The FPI previously estimated that BYU would achieve an 8.5-win season, but this has since been adjusted to a projected record of 10.1 wins and 1.9 losses.
- BYU’s Game Predictions:
- FPI favors BYU in all remaining games except against Texas Tech.
This increase in expectations indicates a high probability that BYU will secure a “special season,” defined as achieving 10 or more regular season wins. Securing 10 wins would not only enhance their chances for the Big 12 championship but could also lead to an invitation to the College Football Playoff.
Updated Odds for a Successful Season
FPI has significantly changed BYU’s odds over the past week:
- 71.3% chance of winning 10 or more games (up from 54.9%)
- 99.4% chance of winning at least 8 games
- 93.5% chance of winning at least 9 games
- 7.4% chance of going undefeated
Winning against Iowa State would further elevate BYU’s chances of hitting that 10-win mark, increasing it to 87.2%. Meanwhile, the rankings see BYU maintaining its No. 19 position, while Utah dropped to No. 15.
Conference Championship Race
In the context of the Big 12 championship picture, Texas Tech remains the favorite, although their loss at Arizona State has narrowed their lead. Currently, BYU is positioned second for a shot at the title. According to the FPI, both BYU and Texas Tech are the only teams with over a 15% chance to win the conference.
- Big 12 Championship Chances:
- BYU: 52.0% chance to qualify for the College Football Playoff — the highest in the Big 12.
As the Cougars advance in their season, the outcome of the game against Iowa State could be pivotal in shaping the remainder of their schedule and ultimately determining their playoff prospects.
