PLAYERS TO WATCH
–WR Hakeem Butler was the biggest beneficiary of quarterback Zeb Noland’s success against Oklahoma, catching five passes for 174 yards and a pair of touchdowns. His ability to catch balls in traffic, and evade tacklers after the catch, is among the best in the country.
–C Colin Newell did a nice job stabilizing the line in his first official start — not a bad day’s work for a freshman. He and the line will look for continued improvement, especially given the team’s sudden lack of experience at quarterback.
–S Greg Eisworth is coming off a career-high 14-tackle game against Oklahoma. He also forced his first career fumble. He and the secondary had an up-and-down game against Oklahoma and will be looking for more consistency this week.
–K Connor Assalley is perfect on field goals so far in 2018, knocking down all three of his attempts. Special teams have been a focus under Matt Campbell, and Assalley’s skills will be particularly important in conference play.
SERIES HISTORY: Iowa State leads Akron, 1-0. The Cyclones eased to a 41-14 victory over the Zips a year ago.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “I thought he made great decisions. Even at the end, that’s not his fault. He was pressured and just trying to make a play at the end of it, but (I’m) really proud of him. Every opportunity he’s gotten, he’s taken advantage of it. ” — Coach Matt Campbell, on quarterback Zeb Noland’s performance against Oklahoma.
