Top 5 matchups for Week 2 of the 2024 college football season
3. Iowa State vs. No. 21 Iowa – Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS
Outside of the Covid-impacted 2020 season, Iowa State and Iowa have played annually since 1977 and Saturday鈥檚 matchup will be the 71st game in the series between the in-state rivals. The Hawkeyes have historically dominated the Cyclones, winning 47 of the programs鈥� 70 matchups, including seven of the last eight. However, the teams have played tight games as of late as each contest since 2017 has been decided by 10 points or less.
That could be the case again on Saturday with two evenly matched teams, and betting odds have reflected that with the Hawkeyes opening as just a three-point favorite. Iowa only scored 20 points in last year鈥檚 battle for the Cy-Hawk trophy with an offense that struggled throughout the year. However, the Hawkeyes quieted some critics in game one of the 2024 season with a 40-0 win over Illinois State as quarterback Cade McNamara looked strong while running back Kaleb Johnson had a 100-yard day.
Iowa State should also feel good heading into Saturday after a 21-3 win against North Dakota. Quarterback Rocco Becht looked sharp in a 267-yard effort while the defense was strong throughout the contest. If Iowa State鈥檚 defense can match that of the Hawkeyes, another ugly, low-scoring contest could ensue that could give the Cyclones a chance at a road upset. Iowa is no stranger to sneaking out wins in defensive battles either though, and a win over its rival would be significant for its playoff resume.
