Iowa State vs Iowa 2026: Live Score, TV Channel, Cy-Hawk Rivalry History & More
Iowa State vs Iowa 2026: Live Score, TV & Cy-Hawk History
Iowa State vs Iowa is one of the biggest in-state rivalries in college football, bringing together the Iowa State Cyclones and Iowa Hawkeyes in a battle for the Cy-Hawk Trophy and statewide bragging rights.
The 2026 edition of Iowa State vs Iowa football is being played at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, September 12. The game kicked off in the 6:30 p.m. CT television window on NBC.
At the latest verified live update, Iowa State and Iowa were tied 10-10 with 11:21 remaining in the third quarter. Because the game is still in progress at the latest reliable update, the score may change quickly.
Fans following other major college football games can also read our Ohio State football today guide for the Buckeyes’ latest score, schedule, ranking and upcoming games.
Iowa State vs Iowa Live Score
Here is the latest verified Iowa State vs Iowa score:
| Team | Score |
|---|---|
| Iowa State Cyclones | 10 |
| Iowa Hawkeyes | 10 |
| Game status | 11:21 remaining in the third quarter at latest verified update |
For the newest score, play-by-play and game statistics, check the ESPN Iowa State vs Iowa live game tracker.
Because this is a live game, readers should refresh the official tracker for the most current information.
Iowa State vs Iowa 2026 Game Details
Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 Cy-Hawk matchup.
| Game Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Matchup | Iowa State Cyclones at Iowa Hawkeyes |
| Date | Saturday, September 12, 2026 |
| Kickoff | 6:30 p.m. CT television window |
| Stadium | Kinnick Stadium |
| Location | Iowa City, Iowa |
| TV Channel | NBC |
| Iowa State entering record | 1-0 |
| Iowa entering record | 1-0 |
| Series meeting | 73rd |
| Rivalry trophy | Cy-Hawk Trophy |
Iowa State’s official game primer confirms the September 12 matchup at Kinnick Stadium, the 6:30 p.m. CT NBC window and the teams’ 1-0 records entering the rivalry.
Readers looking for official team notes can visit the Iowa State 2026 Cy-Hawk game primer.
What Time Is Iowa State vs Iowa?
The 2026 Iowa State vs Iowa football game was scheduled in the 6:30 p.m. Central Time window.
That is approximately:
| Time Zone | Time |
|---|---|
| Eastern | 7:30 p.m. |
| Central | 6:30 p.m. |
| Mountain | 5:30 p.m. |
| Pacific | 4:30 p.m. |
Iowa’s official game notes list the precise scheduled kickoff at 6:36 p.m. CT.
The night kickoff gives one of Iowa’s biggest sporting rivalries an even more intense atmosphere at Kinnick Stadium.
What Channel Is Iowa State vs Iowa On?
The 2026 Iowa State vs Iowa game is on NBC.
Both Iowa State and Iowa list NBC as the television broadcaster for the game.
Fans should check their local NBC affiliate or an authorized platform carrying the NBC broadcast.
Official radio coverage is also available through the schools’ respective radio networks.
For people planning a full weekend of football, Elite Era Trends also has an NFL Week 1 schedule and TV guide covering the major NFL games, kickoff times and viewing information.
You can also check our NFL games today guide for more football viewing coverage.
How to Watch Iowa State vs Iowa Live
The simplest way to watch the 2026 Cy-Hawk game is through the official NBC broadcast.
Viewers should use NBC or an authorized service that carries their local NBC station.
For live statistics, official team websites and established sports providers such as ESPN offer play-by-play updates throughout the game.
Fans should avoid unauthorized streaming websites that claim to offer free broadcasts but may use misleading links or intrusive advertising.
Iowa State vs Iowa Rivalry Explained
The Iowa State-Iowa rivalry, commonly called the Cy-Hawk rivalry, is an annual college football matchup between the Iowa State Cyclones and Iowa Hawkeyes.
The game is especially interesting because the programs compete in different conferences.
Iowa State plays in the Big 12 Conference, while Iowa competes in the Big Ten Conference.
That means Iowa State vs Iowa is normally a nonconference game, but its importance often feels much greater than a typical early-season matchup.
The rivalry is fueled by geography, recruiting, school pride, family connections and the fact that supporters of both universities live throughout the same state.
For many fans, winning the Cy-Hawk game means having bragging rights for an entire year.
What Is the Cy-Hawk Trophy?
The Cy-Hawk Trophy is awarded to the winner of the annual Iowa State vs Iowa football game.
Its name combines the identities of the two schools:
“Cy” represents the Iowa State Cyclones.
“Hawk” represents the Iowa Hawkeyes.
The trophy became part of the modern rivalry when the football series resumed in 1977.
Possession of the trophy lasts until the schools meet again, adding another visible symbol to the importance of the rivalry.
When Did Iowa State and Iowa First Play?
Iowa State and Iowa first played football in 1894.
Iowa State won that first matchup 16-8.
However, the rivalry has not been played continuously since the 19th century.
The schools did not meet from 1935 through 1976. The football rivalry resumed in 1977 and was then played for 43 consecutive seasons through 2019.
The teams did not play in 2020.
The 2026 matchup is the 73rd football meeting between Iowa State and Iowa.
Who Leads the Iowa State vs Iowa All-Time Series?
Iowa holds the historical advantage in the Iowa vs Iowa State football rivalry.
However, readers may notice two slightly different all-time records depending on the source.
Iowa State’s official materials list Iowa with a 47-25 on-field advantage entering the 2026 game.
Iowa’s official record lists the series as 46-25 because Iowa’s 2023 victory was later vacated.
That distinction explains why reputable sources can display two different totals.
The on-field result in 2023 was Iowa 20, Iowa State 13, but Iowa no longer counts the game as an official victory in its record book.
For additional historical context, see Iowa’s official 2026 Cy-Hawk game notes.
Recent Iowa State vs Iowa Scores
Recent Cy-Hawk games have been extremely close.
| Year | Result | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Iowa State 16, Iowa 13 | Ames |
| 2024 | Iowa State 20, Iowa 19 | Iowa City |
| 2023 | Iowa 20, Iowa State 13 — later vacated by Iowa | Ames |
| 2022 | Iowa State 10, Iowa 7 | Iowa City |
Iowa State entered the 2026 game having won two consecutive meetings and three of the previous four games on the field.
The Cyclones also entered the game having won their previous two trips to Kinnick Stadium.
Iowa’s official game notes state that the previous eight meetings entering 2026 had all been decided by 10 points or fewer.
That recent history helps explain why the Cy-Hawk rivalry has become so difficult to predict.
Who Won Iowa State vs Iowa in 2025?
Iowa State defeated Iowa 16-13 on September 6, 2025.
The teams were tied 13-13 late in the fourth quarter before Iowa State kicker Kyle Konrardy made a 54-yard field goal with 1:52 remaining.
The kick gave Iowa State its second straight victory against Iowa.
It was also the second consecutive season in which Konrardy made a 54-yard field goal late in the Cy-Hawk game.
What Happened in Iowa State vs Iowa in 2024?
The 2024 Cy-Hawk game produced one of the rivalry’s most dramatic recent finishes.
Iowa led 13-0 at halftime, but Iowa State rallied in the second half.
Quarterback Rocco Becht helped the Cyclones mount the comeback before Konrardy made a 54-yard field goal with six seconds remaining.
Iowa State won the game 20-19 at Kinnick Stadium.
The one-point victory gave Iowa State its second consecutive win in Iowa City after also defeating Iowa 10-7 there in 2022.
Why Are Iowa State vs Iowa Games Often So Close?
Recent Cy-Hawk games have often been defined by defense, field position, turnovers and special teams.
When scoring opportunities are limited, a single mistake can become the difference between winning and losing.
That makes several areas especially important.
Turnovers
An interception or fumble can immediately change field position.
In a close rivalry game, one turnover may create the short field needed for the decisive touchdown or field goal.
Third-Down Efficiency
Long drives can control possession and keep the opposing offense on the sideline.
Converting third downs is therefore particularly valuable in games where possessions are limited.
Field Position
Strong punting and special-teams coverage can force an opponent to begin drives deep in its own territory.
Kicking
Recent history makes this factor impossible to ignore.
Konrardy hit 54-yard go-ahead field goals against Iowa in both 2024 and 2025.
If another Cy-Hawk matchup comes down to the final minutes, field-goal range could again be decisive.
Iowa State Cyclones: 2026 Team Outlook
Iowa State entered the Cy-Hawk game with a 1-0 record under first-year head coach Jimmy Rogers.
The Cyclones opened the season with a 38-10 victory over Southeast Missouri State.
Quarterback Jaylen Raynor accounted for four touchdowns in the opener.
He threw for 184 yards and two touchdowns while also scoring twice on the ground.
Iowa State’s defense was another major positive.
The Cyclones recorded six sacks and forced three takeaways.
Defensive end Isaac Terrell recorded three sacks and forced a fumble, earning Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors.
That defensive pressure became a major storyline entering the Iowa game.
Iowa Hawkeyes: 2026 Team Outlook
Iowa also entered the Cy-Hawk matchup at 1-0.
The Hawkeyes opened their season with an impressive 40-0 victory over Northern Illinois.
Iowa produced 507 total yards, including 298 rushing yards.
Running back Kamari Moulton rushed for a career-high 183 yards and two touchdowns on just 11 carries.
Iowa’s defense also dominated the opener.
Northern Illinois finished with only 120 total yards and seven first downs, while Iowa recorded six sacks.
That performance reinforced the Hawkeyes’ reputation for strong defensive football heading into the rivalry matchup.
Key Iowa State vs Iowa Matchups
Several individual battles could determine the outcome of the Cy-Hawk game.
Iowa Running Game vs Iowa State Front Seven
Iowa’s rushing attack was one of the biggest stories of Week 1.
If the Hawkeyes consistently gain yards on early downs, they can control possession and reduce Iowa State’s offensive opportunities.
Iowa State’s defensive front, however, entered the matchup after generating six sacks in its opener.
Whichever team controls the line of scrimmage could gain a major advantage.
Iowa State Quarterback Play vs Iowa Defense
Iowa State needs efficient quarterback play against a Hawkeye defense capable of creating pressure and limiting explosive plays.
Raynor’s mobility can add another dimension, especially if Iowa’s coverage forces him to extend plays.
Avoiding turnovers will be particularly important.
Turnover Battle
Both programs showed defensive playmaking ability in their season openers.
In a rivalry where recent games have frequently been decided by one possession, giving the opponent extra possessions can be costly.
Special Teams
No recent Iowa State-Iowa storyline is more significant than special teams.
Iowa State’s 2024 and 2025 victories were both decided by 54-yard Konrardy field goals.
Field position, punts and kicking could again become central if the 2026 game remains close in the fourth quarter.
Kinnick Stadium and the Cy-Hawk Atmosphere
The 2026 game is being played at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.
Iowa and Iowa State both list the stadium’s capacity at approximately 69,250.
The rivalry game was sold out well before kickoff.
Iowa entered the matchup with a strong recent record in night games at Kinnick Stadium.
However, Iowa State had also won its previous two Cy-Hawk visits to Iowa City.
The Cyclones won 10-7 in 2022 and 20-19 in 2024.
That history makes Kinnick Stadium an important advantage for Iowa, but recent results show that it does not guarantee a Hawkeye victory.
Iowa State vs Iowa Under the Lights
The 2026 meeting is only the fifth night game in the rivalry’s history.
Before 2026, Iowa State and Iowa had split their four previous night meetings.
| Year | Location | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Ames | Iowa State 17, Iowa 10 |
| 2002 | Iowa City | Iowa State 36, Iowa 31 |
| 2013 | Ames | Iowa 27, Iowa State 21 |
| 2016 | Iowa City | Iowa 42, Iowa State 3 |
That gave both schools a 2-2 record in Cy-Hawk night games entering the 2026 matchup.
The evening kickoff adds another layer of atmosphere to a rivalry that already generates major statewide interest.
Iowa State vs Iowa: Big 12 vs Big Ten
One reason the Cy-Hawk rivalry is unusual is that the teams do not compete in the same conference.
Iowa State plays in the Big 12.
Iowa plays in the Big Ten.
Therefore, the game does not count toward either team’s conference record.
It can still influence national perception, rankings and the overall quality of each team’s résumé.
An early-season win over a quality Power Four opponent can become valuable later in the year when postseason résumés are compared.
College football fans following Big Ten contenders can also see our Ohio State football schedule, score and ranking coverage.
Which Team Has Been Better Recently: Iowa or Iowa State?
The answer depends on the timeframe.
Historically, Iowa has clearly won more games in the rivalry.
Recent results, however, have favored Iowa State.
Entering the 2026 game, the Cyclones had won:
- 10-7 in 2022
- 20-19 in 2024
- 16-13 in 2025
The 2023 on-field result was a 20-13 Iowa victory that was later vacated by Iowa.
That means Iowa State entered the 2026 game with wins in three of the previous four meetings on the field.
The Cyclones were also seeking a third consecutive road victory over Iowa.
Why the Cy-Hawk Rivalry Matters
Iowa State vs Iowa is about more than one football game.
The schools are separated by less than 150 miles and have passionate fan bases throughout the same state.
Students, alumni, families and coworkers frequently support opposite sides of the rivalry.
That creates year-round debate and makes the result particularly meaningful.
The football matchup is also part of the larger Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series, in which Iowa and Iowa State compete across multiple college sports.
Football remains the highest-profile event because of its crowds, television audience and long history.
Iowa State vs Iowa Head-to-Head Snapshot
| Category | Iowa State | Iowa |
|---|---|---|
| Nickname | Cyclones | Hawkeyes |
| City | Ames | Iowa City |
| Conference | Big 12 | Big Ten |
| Home Stadium | Jack Trice Stadium | Kinnick Stadium |
| Rivalry Trophy | Cy-Hawk Trophy | Cy-Hawk Trophy |
| First Meeting | 1894 | 1894 |
| 2026 Meeting | 73rd | 73rd |
Iowa State vs Iowa FAQs
What is the Iowa State vs Iowa score?
At the latest verified update available, Iowa State and Iowa were tied 10-10 with 11:21 remaining in the third quarter. Because the game is in progress at the latest reliable update, check the live game tracker for the newest score.
What time is Iowa State vs Iowa?
The 2026 game was scheduled in the 6:30 p.m. CT television window on Saturday, September 12. Iowa’s official notes listed the precise scheduled kickoff at 6:36 p.m. CT.
What channel is Iowa State vs Iowa on?
The 2026 Iowa State vs Iowa football game is televised on NBC.
Where is Iowa State vs Iowa being played?
The 2026 matchup is being played at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.
What is the Iowa State vs Iowa rivalry called?
It is commonly known as the Cy-Hawk rivalry.
What trophy does Iowa State vs Iowa play for?
The winner receives the Cy-Hawk Trophy.
Who won Iowa State vs Iowa in 2025?
Iowa State defeated Iowa 16-13 in 2025.
Who won Iowa State vs Iowa in 2024?
Iowa State defeated Iowa 20-19 at Kinnick Stadium in 2024.
Who leads the Iowa State vs Iowa all-time series?
Iowa holds the historical series advantage. Iowa State lists Iowa’s on-field advantage as 47-25 entering the 2026 game, while Iowa officially lists 46-25 because its 2023 victory was vacated.
When did Iowa and Iowa State first play?
The schools first played football in 1894, with Iowa State winning 16-8.
Are Iowa and Iowa State in the same conference?
No. Iowa State competes in the Big 12 Conference, while Iowa is a member of the Big Ten Conference.
How many times have Iowa and Iowa State played?
The 2026 matchup is the 73rd football meeting between Iowa State and Iowa.
Where does Iowa State play home football games?
Iowa State plays at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa.
Where does Iowa play home football games?
Iowa plays at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.
Final Thoughts
Iowa State vs Iowa remains one of college football’s most compelling in-state rivalries because history provides only part of the story.
Iowa owns the long-term series advantage, but Iowa State entered the 2026 matchup after winning the previous two meetings and three of the previous four games on the field.
The Cyclones had also won their previous two games at Kinnick Stadium.
Recent Cy-Hawk games have repeatedly been decided by one possession, and the 2024 and 2025 matchups were both decided by late 54-yard field goals from Kyle Konrardy.
The 2026 meeting has once again developed into a close game. At the latest verified update, Iowa State and Iowa were tied 10-10 in the third quarter.
Whether fans are searching for the Iowa State vs Iowa score, Iowa vs Iowa State live updates, Cy-Hawk Trophy history, TV channel, game time, recent results or all-time record, this rivalry continues to be one of the most important annual sporting events in Iowa.
