AMES, Iowa (AP) — West Virginia (5-5, 2-5 Big 12) at Iowa State (6-5, 3-5), 2:30 p.m; Friday (ABC)

Line: West Virginia by 1

Series Record: First meeting

WHAT'S AT STAKE

West Virginia can stop a brutal five-game losing streak and earn bowl eligibility with a win. The Cyclones will look to improve their bowl positioning.

KEY MATCHUP

Iowa State's defensive line vs. West Virginia's offensive line. If Mountaineers QB Geno Smith has time to throw to the likes of Tavon Austin, it could be a log day for the Cyclones. Iowa State needs to get pressure on Smith and make him uncomfortable in the pocket.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

West Virginia: WR Stedman Bailey. He's got 20 TD catches this season — or just four less than Iowa State's entire team. Keeping Bailey and Austin out of the end zone is crucial for the Cyclones.

Iowa State: QB Sam Richardson. Coach Paul Rhoads wouldn't commit to starting him this week, but few expect him to see any time on the bench. Richardson will look to capitalize on his sterling debut and claim the No. 1 job for the bowl game, 2013 and beyond.

FACTS & FIGURES

West Virginia coach Dana Holgorsen used to be the offensive coordinator at Texas Tech, which beat the Cyclones in 2006 and 2007. Holgorsen's offense scored 42 points in each victory...Iowa State has lost three home games this season but only a pair of the road...West Virginia has allowed at least 40 points in all but one Big 12 game.