Cy-Hawk Showdown: Can Iowa State Make It Three Straight Over Hawkeyes?
The Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series renews Saturday night at Kinnick Stadium, with Iowa State looking for a third consecutive win over the Hawkeyes. The game carries extra weight this year after the sudden passing of University of Iowa band member Derek Phillips, who suffered cardiac arrest during the Hawkeyes' season opener.
Both teams enter the matchup at 1-0, but with very different paths to get there. Iowa grinded out a win over Northern Illinois, while Iowa State rolled past an FCS opponent in its first game under new head coach Jimmy Rogers.
Iowa State's New Era Begins With a Win
Jimmy Rogers opened his Iowa State tenure with a 38-10 victory over Southeast Missouri State. The Cyclones showed flashes of promise, but also revealed areas of concern, particularly in the running game.
Iowa State managed just 108 rushing yards against an FCS defense and struggled to control the clock. The Cyclones start ten transfers on offense and likely seven on defense, meaning chemistry is still a work in progress.
Former Arkansas State quarterback Jaylen Raynor provided the spark, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for two more. His ability to make plays with his legs could be the difference against a stout Iowa defense.
Iowa's Defense Looks Dominant
The Hawkeyes' defensive front was the story of Week 1, recording six sacks and allowing just seven net rushing yards on 31 carries against Northern Illinois. That performance has Iowa fans feeling confident heading into the rivalry game.
Iowa also showed a willingness to throw the ball downfield, a departure from recent conservative offensive approaches. If the Hawkeyes can sustain that balance, it could open up scoring opportunities against a Cyclone defense still finding its footing.
Recent History Favors the Cyclones
Iowa State has won the last two meetings and three of the last four. The three wins were decided by a combined seven points, underscoring how tight this rivalry has become.
Six of the last eight Cy-Hawk games have been decided by a touchdown or less. The last blowout came in 2016 when Iowa won 42-3.
Prediction and Betting Lines
Our prediction: Iowa 26, Iowa State 13. The Hawkeyes' defense should control the line of scrimmage, and the offense appears more balanced than in recent years.
The latest consensus line has Iowa favored by 13.5 points, with the over/under set at 40.5. Lines are based on BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel, and are subject to change.
How to Watch
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Game Time: 7:30 PM ET
TV: NBC
Location: Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, IA
Honoring Derek Phillips
Before the game, both teams will observe a moment of silence for Phillips. The Iowa marching band will also pay tribute to him during halftime.
This rivalry is about more than football, and Saturday's game will carry an emotional weight that transcends the scoreboard.