Iowa State vs Kansas State Kicks Off: College Football Schedule

The 2025 college football schedule bursts into action not in the packed stadiums of the American Midwest, but an ocean away in Dublin, Ireland. On August 23, the Iowa State Cyclones and Kansas State Wildcats transform Aviva Stadium into a little slice of the Great Plains for a Week 0 showdown that’s far more than a quirky opening act. This matchup, a historic chapter in the Farmageddon rivalry, embodies the evolving landscape of college football—where geographic traditions collide with global ambitions, and a single early game can ripple through the entire season. For fans and teams alike, this transatlantic battle offers a thrilling primer on the strategic nuances, emotional stakes, and playoff implications that define the modern era.

The Stage Is Set: Why Dublin Matters

A Global Game

The Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin isn’t merely a neutral-site game; it’s a statement. As the fourth iteration of this international series, it highlights the NCAA’s push to globalize the sport. For the Big 12, it’s a chance to showcase top-tier talent and intense conference rivalry on an international stage. The location demands extra preparation—both teams embarked on long travels, adjusted to time zones, and navigated the challenges of playing abroad, all while balancing the excitement and distractions of an international trip.

Weather and Field Conditions

The cool Dublin climate—with temperatures in the 60s—contrasts sharply with the late-summer heat of Kansas and Iowa, potentially affecting player performance. Historically, games in Dublin have favored defensive strategies, with three of the last four matchups staying under the point total by an average of nearly 9 points. This adds a layer of intrigue to a game featuring two offenses led by dynamic quarterbacks.

Breaking Down the Matchup: Iowa State vs. Kansas State

Offensive Firepower

• Iowa State Cyclones: Quarterback Rocco Becht returns for his fourth season, bringing veteran savvy and proven clutch performance. In 2024, he led the Cyclones to an 11-3 record, including a 5-1 mark in one-score games. He’s joined by junior running back Carson Hansen, who rushed for 752 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. The receiving corps, however, faces questions after losing top targets Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel to the NFL.
• Kansas State Wildcats: Dual-threat quarterback Avery Johnson headlines the Wildcats’ offense. Last season, he accounted for 25 touchdowns through the air and added critical rushing production, scoring on the ground in six of his final eight games. He’s supported by running back Dylan Edwards (546 rushing yards in 2024) and a talented receiving trio of Jayce Brown, Jerand Bradley, and Jaron Tibbs.

Defensive Strengths

Both teams boast defenses that ranked in the top half of the Big 12 last season:

• Iowa State: Allowed 22.9 points per game (5th in the Big 12) and returns experience at linebacker and in the secondary, including defensive back Jeremiah Cooper.
• Kansas State: Allowed 23.4 points per game (7th in the Big 12) but faces questions in the secondary and along the defensive line.

Table: Key Statistical Comparison (2024 Season)

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Becht vs Johnson: A quarterback duel between Becht’s experience and Johnson’s explosiveness. Becht’s ability to manage close games contrasts with Johnson’s knack for big plays.
2. Trench Warfare: Iowa State’s offensive line, with 106 combined starts, holds an advantage over Kansas State’s front, which returns only two starters. This could dictate the tempo.
3. Secondary Strategies: Iowa State’s defensive backs, like Jeremiah Cooper, could exploit Kansas State’s relatively inexperienced receivers if Johnson’s timing is off.

The Big 12 and College Football Playoff Implications

Conference Race Dynamics

This game carries immediate weight in the Big 12 title chase. Kansas State is the conference favorite per ESPN’s Football Power Index (23.7% odds to win), while Iowa State faces longer odds (4.7%) but has a history of outperforming expectations. A win here provides critical momentum in a league known for parity.

Playoff Picture

With the expanded 12-team playoff, both teams have a realistic path to contention. However, an early loss could force the loser into must-win mode for the rest of the season. For Iowa State, a victory would affirm their status as a dark horse; for Kansas State, it would validate their preseason hype.

Table: Key Week 0 Matchups in the 2025 College Football Schedule

How to Watch and Streaming Options

The game kicks off at 12:00 PM ET on ESPN. Streaming options include:

• FuboTV: $84.99/month (free trial available)
• Sling TV: $45.99/month
• DirecTV Stream: $89.99/month (free trial available)

For fans traveling to Dublin, Aviva Stadium offers a modern, intimate setting with a capacity of 51,700, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Opening Act

The Iowa State vs. Kansas State clash in Dublin is more than just a game—it’s a microcosm of modern college football. It blends:

• Global expansion (the Dublin stage)
• Strategic depth (trench battles and quarterback duels)
• High stakes (Big 12 and playoff implications)
• And timeless rivalry (Farmageddon’s history)

As the 2025 college football schedule unfolds, this Week 0 thriller will be remembered as a pivotal starting point. Whether you’re a diehard Cyclone, a loyal Wildcat, or a neutral fan, this game offers everything we love about the sport: passion, strategy, and the promise of unforgettable moments.

Who do you think will win this prime-time showdown? Share your predictions and join the conversation in the comments below.