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Come Fan with UsMonday, August 10, 2026

Iowa State vs. Kansas final score: Cyclones defeat Jayhawks 51-23, become bowl eligible

The Iowa State Cyclones gained bowl eligibility on Saturday, defeating the Kansas Jayhawks, 51-23.

John Rieger-US PRESSWIRE

The Iowa State Cyclones became bowl eligible on Saturday, defeating the Kansas Jayhawks 51-23 in Lawrence, Kansas. Kansas only trailed by three after the first quarter, but Iowa State blew the game open during the next two quarters, outscoring the Jayhawks 31-10.

Cyclones' freshman quarterback Sam Richardson had an efficient day through the air, completing 23 of his 27 passes for 250 yards and four touchdowns. Iowa State ran the ball well as a team, rushing for 241 yards on 42 carries, good for 5.7 yards per carry. Richardson and tailback Jeff Woody each scored a rushing touchdown.

The Kansas Jayhawks fell to 1-10 on the season, and 0-8 in the Big XII. Both Dayne Crist and Michael Cummings were ineffective throwing the ball, combining to go 11-25 for 189 yards. Crist threw for a touchdown, but also tossed an interception. Running back James Sims rushed for 81 yards on 20 carries.

Box Score Hero: Cyclones quarterback Sam Richardson, who had 301 total yards and accounted for five touchdowns.

Rankings Ramifications: Neither team will rank in the polls next week.

But Did They Cover? Iowa State came into the game as eight-point favorites, covering the spread.

For More On This Game: For more on Clones football, visit Iowa State blog Wide Right & Natty Lite. For more on KU football, visit Kansas blog Rock Chalk Talk, plus SB Nation Kansas City.

Next Week’s Schedule:

Kansas - Bye Week

Iowa State - at West Virginia

Check out the SB Nation Channel on YouTube

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