The Cy-Hawk rivalry game between Iowa and Iowa State is set to take place with high stakes this weekend, showcasing college football at its best. The intense rivalry dates back to 1894 but was briefly paused before a cooler head prevailed in 1977, leading to the creation of the modern Cy-Hawk Trophy. The last six matchups have been fiercely competitive, with each game decided by 10 or fewer points. With both teams expected to compete for a College Football Playoff bid, this year’s game could have significant implications for the season.
Iowa State coach Matt Campbell has led the program to success, but has struggled against Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz, who has dominated the rivalry in recent years. The game is not just about bragging rights, as it could impact the College Football Playoff race. For Iowa, a win over Iowa State could potentially lead to a playoff berth, while a loss might derail their chances. For the Big 12 conference, a victory for Iowa State over a strong Iowa team could boost the conference’s pursuit of an at-large bid.
The game is expected to be a thrilling matchup, with both teams featuring strong defenses and potent offenses. Iowa State enters the game with one of its best rosters ever, while Iowa has shown improvement in their recent performances. The Cy-Hawk Trophy symbolizes the importance of rivalry games in college football and highlights the significance of every regular-season game in the era of the expanded College Football Playoff. As the two teams prepare to face off on Saturday, fans can expect an intense, high-stakes battle between Iowa and Iowa State.
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