The Cy-Hawk rivalry consistently delivers excitement, regardless of the teams' records or rankings. This year's encounter carries additional significance: Iowa State is currently ranked #16 nationally following two impressive victories, while Iowa arrives with a record of 1-0 after a less than convincing performance against Albany. 

FOX's Big Noon Kickoff will be broadcasting from Ames for the 72nd installment of this rivalry, with the Cy-Hawk Trophy once again at stake. Alongside the action brings about our Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. picks!

 

 

 

Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. Predictions for College Football Week 2, Saturday, 9/6

Iowa State is a narrow 3.5-point favorite on their home turf, with the total set at 42.5 points. This positions the game among the lowest totals for Week 2, consistent with the defensive battles that these two teams are renowned for.

Even in a rivalry game where underdogs frequently rise to the challenge, this appears to be a situation where the Cyclones represent the favorable choice. Betting the 3.5 points may seem risky considering the history of closely contested games in this matchup, yet there are numerous reasons why the Cyclones hold the advantage in our Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. predictions.

 

Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. Spread Pick: Cyclones -2.5 (-120 at FanDuel Sportsbook)

To follow that up, the Cyclones have already participated in two games. They commenced with a 35–21 victory over a ranked Kansas State team in Week 0, followed by a commanding 44–7 victory against South Dakota. 

This experience is significant — Iowa State has dispelled early-season rust, established a rhythm in their passing game, and has already demonstrated the ability to advance the ball against credible competition.

In contrast, Iowa has only played once — a 34–7 victory over Albany. Although the box score appeared satisfactory, the performance raised concerns. Quarterback Mark Gronowski completed only 8 of 15 passes for 44 yards. 

The Hawkeyes relied solely on their running game, accumulating 310 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns. While this may suffice against an FCS opponent, it’s not a viable strategy against a Top 20 defense on the road.

Iowa State has exhibited a significantly more balanced offensive approach over the past two weeks. Quarterback Rocco Becht has become increasingly comfortable as the starter, having thrown for over 500 yards and five touchdowns already this season. 

Although he will be without last year’s NFL-bound talents Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins, the Cyclones’ restructured receiving corps has risen to the occasion early on. Running back Abu Sama III also contributes explosiveness to the ground game, keeping defenses on their toes.

In contrast, Iowa remains one-dimensional. The Hawkeyes ranked only 72nd in scoring offense last season and have yet to prove their ability to consistently stretch the field. Against a disciplined Cyclones defense, loading the box to halt the run becomes a feasible strategy. If Gronowski is unable to connect downfield, Iowa’s offensive efforts could quickly falter. 

 

 

 

Traditionally, this matchup is a battle of attrition. Fewer than 40 points have been scored in five of the last six encounters, including last year’s narrow 20–19 victory for Iowa State in Iowa City. Both teams return the majority of their key defensive players from 2024, and it is unlikely that either team will allow many significant plays.

Although Iowa has historically excelled in Ames, this season presents a different scenario. The Cyclones have not secured consecutive Cy-Hawk trophies since 2011–2012, yet they possess momentum, and the atmosphere at Jack Trice Stadium is expected to be vibrant with FOX’s pregame show in attendance. Rivalry games are charged with emotion, but with Iowa State already performing well through two games, the home field advantage could be the factor that propels them to victory.

Iowa has a record of 1-4 against the spread (ATS) in its last five away games. Iowa State boasts a 4-1 ATS record in its last five games overall. This week’s Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. predictions anticipate another defensive battle, but one in which Iowa State’s well-rounded offense and experience will prove decisive. 

Iowa’s rushing attack may generate some drives, but without a dependable passing game, the Hawkeyes are likely to struggle in following through with their possessions. The Cyclones may not dominate the scoreline, but they don’t need to — a margin of just four will suffice to land in the green.

 

 

 

How To Watch Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. College Football Week 1

  • Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
  • Time: 12:00 PM ET
  • TV: FOX (Big Noon Kickoff)
  • Location: Jack Trice Stadium, Ames, Iowa

 

Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

With our official Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. predictions detailed above, we now present the most recent Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. odds as provided by FanDuel Sportsbook:

  • Money Line (ML): Hawkeyes +136 | Cyclones -164
  • Spread: Hawkeyes +3.5 (-114) | Cyclones -3.5 (-106)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 42.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

 

 

 

Iowa vs. #16 Iowa St. Injury Report & Latest News

Iowa Injury Report

  • None

Iowa State Injury Report

  • None

 

 

 

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