Everything You Need to Know About Saturday’s Cy-Hawk Game

If you grew up in Iowa, you know just how big this week is. It's Cy-Hawk week. The students and the University of Iowa and Iowa State call it Hate Week. It's a college football rivalry game that rips families apart. It's time for the Hawkeyes versus the Cyclones!

Where Can I Watch the Game?

The Des Moines Register reports that this year will mark the third year since 2019 that the Cy-Hawk game is broadcast to a national audience. ESPN's College Gameday visited in 2019 and 2021. This year, FOX and its 'Big Noon Kickoff' show will be in Ames on Saturday. The game can then be seen on FOX with kickoff set for just after 11 a.m.

Who Is Favored to Win on Saturday?

Make no mistake about it, the Cyclones have looked like the better football team early. They handled Kansas State in Ireland and then stomped a good South Dakota team in Ames last weekend. Meanwhile, Iowa struggled before pulling away in the second half against an inferior UAlbany team. Advantage Cyclones, right? Not so fast, my friend!

Even though the Register points out that this will be the first time since 1978 that the Cyclones are ranked and Iowa is not, road teams have been the winners recently. In fact, Iowa State hasn't beaten the Hawkeyes in Ames since 2011. In fact, the Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that Iowa has won its last six games at Jack Trice Stadium.

It Wil Be a Game of Contrasting Styles

Iowa State clearly has the advantage in the passing game. Quarterback Rocco Becht looks to be in mid-season form and will provide a huge challenge to the Iowa defense. The Gazette reports that Becht has a touchdown pass in his last 20 games, the longest streak in the nation.  The Hawkeyes will look to keep the ball on the ground. The Gazette reports Iowa has rushed for at least 268 yards in three of its last six games. Expect the ground and pound from Iowa on Saturday.

No matter who wins, the game will likely be a close one. The Register reports that the last seven Cy-Hawk games were settled by 10 points or less. The Gazette reports that ISU's last three wins have all been by three points or less. The road team has won the last five meetings.

Get ready for another classic Cy-Hawk battle!