Iowa and Iowa State Battle for Cy-Hawk Trophy in Thrilling Showdown

The legendary Cy-Hawk rivalry delivered another unforgettable chapter on September 6, 2025, as the No. 16 Iowa State Cyclones clashed with the Iowa Hawkeyes at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. With the noon sun blazing over 62 degrees and a stadium humming with anticipation, this 72nd meeting was more than just a game—it was a state-wide spectacle, a battle for pride, and the coveted Cy-Hawk Trophy. At halftime, it was the Cyclones who held the edge in this defensive slugfest, leading in a game where every yard felt hard-earned and every mistake threatened to tip the scales. The intensity was palpable as Iowa State, buoyed by their hot start to the season and the home crowd, looked to continue their ascent as conference title contenders. Meanwhile, Iowa, coming off a gritty win and with head coach Kirk Ferentz tying the Big Ten’s all-time wins record, sought to prove that their defensive grit could once again carry them through. Quarterbacks were under the microscope: Rocco Becht for the Cyclones and Mark Gronowski for the Hawkeyes. Becht, who had already torched defenses with his arm this season, threw for 61 yards and a touchdown in the early going, showing flashes of the brilliance that made him one of the Big 12’s most electric passers. Gronowski, in his first real test against Power Five competition, struggled to find rhythm in the passing game but made up for it with his mobility, notching a crucial two-yard touchdown run just before halftime. This rivalry, as history warns, is rarely decided by offensive fireworks. Since 2017, neither team has scored more than 27 points in the Cy-Hawk showdown. Last year, Iowa State edged out a 20-19 thriller with Becht orchestrating a late-game comeback, and it was déjà vu as both teams’ defenses set the tone again. The Hawkeyes, known for their suffocating run defense under defensive coordinator Phil Parker, limited Iowa State’s rushing attack, while the Cyclones’ own defense forced Iowa to fight for every first down. Special teams and field position loomed large, with Iowa State’s kicker Kyle Konrardy drilling multiple field goals to keep the Cyclones in control. The margin for error was razor-thin: a turnover, a missed tackle, or a single explosive play could decide the fate of the trophy. As the final quarter approached, ESPN Analytics gave the Cyclones a 62.9% win probability, but in a rivalry defined by wild swings and dramatic finishes, nothing was certain. Looking ahead, both programs have much to build on. The Cyclones’ strong start and Becht’s poise under pressure have them dreaming big in the Big 12. The Hawkeyes, with Ferentz’s legendary tenure and a defense that refuses to yield, remain a dangerous out for any foe. The Cy-Hawk Trophy, once again, was a symbol of heart, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of Iowa football. For live updates, in-depth stats, and highlights from this instant classic, check out and follow the official Iowa State Football Twitter for more behind-the-scenes drama.