- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Iowa (8-1) vs Iowa State (9-0)
- When: Dec 11 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: James H. Hilton Coliseum, Ames, IA, USA
- Where to watch: Fox Sports 1
Iowa vs (4) Iowa State Preview & Prediction
Spread: Iowa State -11.5
Moneyline: Iowa State (-940)
Total: 143.5
Iowa State Cyclones Betting Breakdown
Iowa State comes into this rivalry game as the clear favorite at -11.5, and they earned that number after steamrolling Purdue on the road. The Cyclones stunned the entire sport with an 81-58 demolition of the top ranked Boilermakers, matching the largest home loss ever handed to a No. 1 team. Iowa State shot the lights out, buried double digit threes and looked like a team capable of overpowering anyone in their path.
They enter this matchup undefeated at 9-0, playing with confidence and balance on both ends. Their ball movement, spacing and defensive effort have turned them into a legitimate contender and they are embracing the pressure that comes with that status. Iowa State is built to control tempo, exploit matchups and pull away inside Hilton Coliseum, one of the toughest environments in the country.
Given the spread at 11.5, Bovada oddsmakers are baking in Iowa State’s recent dominance and the home court edge. The Total sits at 143.5, which reflects a pace that could spike if the Cyclones get hot from deep again.
Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Breakdown
The Hawkeyes head to Ames at 8-1 after bouncing back from a rough conference loss by dismantling Maryland 83-64. Bennett Stirtz continues to set the tone offensively, and Iowa showed improved defensive focus in their latest outing. Their spacing and willingness to share the ball keep them competitive, but consistency has been the ongoing challenge.
This rivalry usually brings out the best in Iowa, although this is easily their toughest test so far. Their ability to keep pace early will dictate whether they can hang around or get buried by the Cyclones’ pressure. The Hawkeyes need clean possessions, controlled tempo and a strong rebounding effort to avoid letting this one get away.
As an underdog, Iowa offers some intrigue, but their defensive lapses and recent struggles on the road suggest they may have trouble matching Iowa State’s firepower for 40 minutes.
Prediction and Betting Outlook
Iowa State’s size, defense and recent shooting surge make them a difficult matchup for an Iowa team still ironing out its inconsistencies. Hilton Coliseum’s energy pushes the Cyclones to another statement win.
Final Score: Iowa State 82, Iowa 68
Lean: Iowa State -11.5
Total: Over 143.5
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
