(BCSNN) — The annual Cy-Hawk rivalry returns Saturday as Iowa travels to No. 16 Iowa State for a noon kickoff at Jack Trice Stadium, where the Cyclones aim to defend home turf and extend their early-season momentum. The game marks the 72nd meeting between the in-state foes, with Iowa holding a 47-24 edge in the series, though Iowa State has won two of the last three.
Both teams enter the Week 2 matchup unbeaten, but with contrasting styles and trajectories. Iowa (1-0) leaned heavily on its ground game in a 34-7 win over Albany, rushing for 310 yards while transfer quarterback Mark Gronowski struggled to find rhythm through the air. The former South Dakota State standout completed just 8-of-15 passes for 44 yards and a touchdown, though he added 39 rushing yards and another score. Gronowski acknowledged first-game jitters and vowed to “sling it” more freely against the Cyclones.
Iowa State (2-0) has looked sharp behind third-year starter Rocco Becht, who has completed 68.8% of his passes for 461 yards, five touchdowns, and no interceptions through two games. Becht was nearly perfect in a 55-7 rout of South Dakota, going 19-of-20 for 278 yards and three scores. He also led the Cyclones to a gritty 24-21 win over Kansas State in Dublin, Ireland, showcasing poise and mobility in pressure moments.
The quarterback duel highlights a broader contrast in offensive identity. Iowa ranks 135th nationally in passing but eighth in rushing, while Iowa State boasts a balanced attack averaging 421 yards per game. The Cyclones have also been disciplined, committing just one penalty against Kansas State and holding opponents to 14 points per game. Iowa’s defense remains stout, allowing just 177 total yards and seven points in its opener, but questions linger about its ability to contain Becht’s quick-release passing game.
Saturday’s game also pits two of the Big Ten and Big 12’s most respected coaches against each other. Iowa’s Kirk Ferentz, now in his 27th season, is tied with Woody Hayes for the most wins by a Big Ten head coach (205) and remains a steady presence in a rapidly changing sport. Iowa State’s Matt Campbell, in his 10th year, recently earned his 100th career win and signed a contract extension through 2032. Campbell has transformed the Cyclones into perennial contenders, including last season’s 11-win campaign and Big 12 Championship appearance.
Despite Iowa State’s ranking and home-field advantage, recent Cy-Hawk games have been notoriously close. Six of the last seven matchups have been decided by one score, and the road team has won every game since 2018. Both defenses are capable of dictating tempo, and with Iowa’s red zone efficiency and time-of-possession edge, the game could hinge on a late possession.
Prediction: Iowa State’s offensive versatility and Becht’s composure give the Cyclones a slight edge, but expect a low-scoring, physical contest. Iowa’s defense will keep it close, and Gronowski may flash his dual-threat ability late. Still, Iowa State pulls away in the fourth quarter.
