By Dallas Jones

AMES, IA – What was supposed to be one of the most anticipated showdowns in recent memory between Iowa and Iowa state, ended up raising more questions about this Iowa team.

The Cyclones entered the game a perfect 8-0 and the Hawkeyes came in at 7-2, with two consecutive losses to a couple of the elite teams in the Big Ten. Iowa did not look like a team hungry for a road win, as the Cyclones dominated for most of the game.

“It’s been a tough stretch, but that’s what this level is.” said Fran McCaffery, “You played some tough road games, you play some tough teams and you have to grow.”

It was back and forth from the jump with eight lead changes in the first 12 minutes alone. The rambunctious crowd in Ames did seem to affect the Iowa offense in the first half. The Cyclones led 38-26 at the break.

Only four Hawkeyes has put any points on the board. Bohannon led the way with 10, follow by Patrick McCaffery (7), Tony Perkins (5), and Filip Rebraca (4).

Once again, rebounds killed this Iowa team. Iowa state had a 16-rebound advantage at halftime. Meaning in the last five halves of basketball, the Hawkeyes have been out-rebounded by 57.

“It just comes back to our rebounding.” said Iowa forward Patrick McCaffery, “I know that’s going to be a huge point of emphasis these next couple games. They just got too many chances to score the ball, too many chances to get the crowd into it, too many chances to get into a rhythm.”

The second half did not bode much better for the Hawkeyes. The Cyclones started the half on a 14-2 run, stretching the lead to 24.

It was clear the Cyclones were set on making sure Iowa star Keegan Murray’s life was difficult. He missed his first ten shots, finally putting his first two points on the board with 12:40 left in the second half.

“We made them uncomfortable. I know he’s their guy and I needed to keep him uncomfortable. He was going to get his, but my job was to get him off his spots.” said Cyclones guard Izaiah Brockington, “I’m extremely proud of everybody. Coach had a plan, all the coaching staff have been drilling it. It’s all about imposing our will. We don’t care what they are ranked in offense, we just do what we do.”

The struggle to rebound the ball and get open looks on the offensive end are clearly going to be a focus for the team going into their nine day break before their next game.