Both teams come into this contest with high expectations. Kansas State, ranked No. 17, is looking to build on a period of sustained success under coach Chris Klieman, who has guided the Wildcats to 28 wins over the past three seasons. With quarterback Avery Johnson returning after a record-setting 25 touchdown season, Kansas State has bolstered its receiving corps through the transfer portal and is viewed as one of the betting favorites to win the conference.
Meanwhile, No. 22 Iowa State is fresh off its most successful campaign in school history, with an 11-win season capped by a trip to the Big 12 Championship Game. Head coach Matt Campbell has reversed the program’s fortunes, winning five of his last seven meetings against the Wildcats. Last season, the Cyclones defeated Kansas State 29-21, a victory that clinched their first-ever 10-win season and propelled them to the conference title game. Quarterback Rocco Becht, who threw for 137 yards and two touchdowns in that win, returns alongside several offensive starters, although the team must replace two NFL Draft picks at receiver.
Statistically, both squads bring explosive offenses to Dublin. In 2024, Iowa State averaged 31.1 points per game, while Kansas State was close behind at 30.8. The over/under for this contest is set at 51.5, and recent history suggests fireworks: three of the last four meetings have eclipsed the 50-point mark. SportsLine’s computer model, which simulates every FBS game 10,000 times, projects a high-scoring contest, with Iowa State covering the +3 spread in nearly 60% of simulations and the total points likely to go over.
The outcome of this game could prove pivotal. Both teams are expected to contend for the Big 12 crown, and an early loss would not only dent playoff hopes but also hand a crucial tiebreaker to a direct rival. The winner will gain a significant edge heading into the rest of the season.
For fans looking to follow the action, the game will kick off at noon ET at Aviva Stadium in Dublin and will be broadcast on ESPN.
While the Wildcats may have a slight edge in experience and depth, the Cyclones’ recent dominance in the series and steady quarterback play from Becht make this one of the most compelling openers in recent memory. As both teams aim for a statement win on the international stage, all eyes will be on Dublin for what could be a Big 12 title preview.