At 6-6, Iowa State was barely bowl eligible. But, that sixth victory, a 37-31 overtime victory against then-No. 2 Oklahoma State turned out to be the pivotal victory of their season.
The Cyclones dropped their final two games, but earned a berth in the Pinstripe Bowl against Rutgers University, which will be played at Yankee Stadium on Friday.
ISU coach Paul Rhoads is looking for his second bowl win in his third season. Redshirt freshman quarterback Jared Barnett, who has had an up-and-down year should fare well with almost a month to prepare.
The Scarlet Knights have not announced their starting quarterback. Coach Greg Schiano said on Thursday it will be a game time decision.
Despite their records, the teams are evenly matched. The Scarlet Knights may have a slight comfort advantage, having played at Yankee Stadium on Nov. 12. But if the ISU linebackers can knock whoever Rutgers puts under center out of rhythm, Coach Rhoads’s team could travel home victorious.
Follow Kristen on Twitter @Call2theBullpen
