Iowa State Football: 5 bold predictions vs. Memphis in Liberty Bowl

5. Riley Ferguson will top 400 passing yards in final game

Stepping into the void left by Paxton Lynch’s graduation after the 2015 season, Riley Ferguson has been a steadying influence on the Memphis offense over the past two seasons. The junior-college transfer is on the cusp of a 4000-yard passing season entering the Liberty Bowl, and he will pass that mark before the middle of the first quarter.

Iowa State’s secondary is giving up an average of 234 yards per game, ranking them 82nd nationally in passing yards conceded. The Cyclones have been unable to stop much through the air, and they are 100th in the FBS in terms of opponent passing efficiency. Couple that with the fact that Ferguson enjoys the protection of an offensive line that gives up only 1.25 sacks per game, and he should have no trouble carving up Iowa State’s secondary.

Look for Ferguson to target Anthony Miller early and often. Miller will go over 1500 receiving yards for the season as he hauls in at least a half-dozen Ferguson passes for 100-plus yards and a score. Tony Pollard could also have a 100-yard receiving day as Ferguson spreads around the ball.

In the end, Ferguson will complete at least two-thirds of his passes for 400-plus passing yards. The senior will hit at least three touchdown strikes on the day. Iowa State’s secondary will have few answers for the cool efficiency of the Tigers gunslinger.