I don't like it either, but it is what it is.
CWU will be tough out. I see them along the lines of No. Dakota from 2008. Even though CWU loses their two All-Americans QB (Reilly) and TE (Bronson), their roster includes several drop downs from FCS and FBS programs, and are expected to return their #1 WR, their top RBs, and the top four leading tacklers on D.
I also don't like the idea of ISU having no bye week mid-season. I know they're a bunch of 18-22 year olds who can tough it out, but the schedule reduces the margin of error, especially if the injury bug bites the Bengals.
It will be a difficult start to the '09 season...three roadies followed by a strong D-II team for the home opener. I think the issue is going to be more about the Bengals' (team and fans) psyche than anything else.
From South Field, this is John Clayton, BengalDen.com
History question: What was the result the last time ISU played CWU in the early 90s? If my memory serves me right (that doesn't happen very often lately), ISU hosted CWU in '91 or '92 and won. Can anyone confirm this?