I don't know if I would say Purdy has did "Way better under harder circumstances". Having David Montgomery in the backfield and Hakeem butler to throw to is quite the boost for Purdy. And throwing 4 less TD and 1 less interception isn't way better.
I was bored and it looks like we can still make it even if we lose this weekend! (Takes a lot of help :D)
Edit: There are other ways too / some games dont matter
I'm sure they do. It's not like anyone outside of Iowa / big 12 watches Iowa State games anyway (Not that I want it that way, it is just how it is unfortunately)
This is the issue though. Why not protect more games to create more "big" games for teams? I personally don't care to play Houston, UCF, or even Cincy more compared to playing against K State or even KU every year