Picks, Point Spread, Preview: What to Know for OSU vs. Iowa State

The worst team in the Big 12 heads to Gallagher-Iba to face Oklahoma State on Tuesday as Iowa State (2-14, 0-11 Big 12) looks to claim its first win since Dec. 20 and its first win over a power conference opponent all season.

The Cyclones are downright hideous. But they’ve still managed to put up some big fights, including recently against Kansas, TCU, OU and West Virginia. So OSU is in a tough spot here, because a win does nothing for the resume and a loss is potentially detrimental for it.

It’s a game OSU should be able to handle, but with an ailing Isaac Likekele it may have to do so at less than full strength.

Here is everything you need to know ahead of the game.

Picks

• Spread (KenPom): OSU -13

Marshall Scott: Iowa State has beaten Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Jackson State this season. I don’t think OSU will get added to that list. The Cyclones are getting better, playing West Virginia, Oklahoma and TCU all tight recently, so I don’t this will be a blowout. Also, watch out for Solomon Young, a big-bodied forward who had his way with the Pokes last season. With that said, I think Iowa State will go to 0-12 in Big 12 play.
Prediction: Oklahoma State 78, Iowa State 73

Kyle Boone: OSU is #good. Iowa State is #bad. That is my #analysis.

On a serious note, this is a game OSU needs if only to avoid a costly slip-up. It did so successfully against Kansas State, winning by only seven. And, I expect it’ll do so here at home against the Cyclones. Their defense has given up some huge scoring performances late to teams that don’t typically put up big numbers. Might be a confidence-boosting spot here for OSU’s hit-and-miss offensive unit to get right. 
Prediction: Oklahoma State 76, Iowa State 70

Kyle Cox: I’ll take the Cowboys to win, but not quite cover. Iowa State has played teams close. The Cowboys, on the other hand, will need to clean up some of their bugaboos (like excessive turnovers and frequent scoring slumps) while trying not to look ahead to a murderer’s row that includes ranked opponents the rest of the way. 
Prediction: Oklahoma State 72, Iowa State 62

Viewing information

• Tip time: 3 p.m. Tuesday

• Location: Gallagher-Iba Arena in Stillwater

• Channel: ESPN+