There are times when in-state rivalries resonate outside of the state they’re played in. This is not one of those games. It’s not as if Iowa-Iowa State games can’t be good, but neither of these teams have done a lot to move the needle on a national scale over the past few years. However, this year, there could be a little something worth playing for.
How to watch Iowa vs. Iowa State on TV or online, plus 3 things to know
Can Iowa get revenge after blowing a lead in the Cy-Hawk game last year?
Despite the fact that Iowa generally finishes better than Iowa State each season, the Hawkeyes have struggled to beat the Cyclones under Kirk Ferentz, who has won only one of his last four games against ISU. And a lot of those losses have been on Ferentz’s shoulders — particularly last year, when the Hawkeyes went up 14-0 early but lost after going super conservative for the rest of the game.
Iowa has vowed to change things up this year and ditch its conservative mindset, and the Hawkeyes stuck to their word in an impressive blowout win over FSC runner-up Illinois State, spreading the field and even attempting a fake field goal. But will Iowa finally be able to beat Iowa State as a favorite? That’s key to getting fans to come back around on Ferentz.
How to watch, stream and listen
TV: 4:30 p.m. ET, FOX (Note: The broadcast has been bumped to FOX Sports 2 while the Yankees and Blue Jays play extra innings)
Radio: Iowa, Iowa State
Online streaming: Fox Sports GO
Three big things to know
1. This is a must-win game for Ferentz. You beat Illinois State? Cool. Now show you can win as the favorite over Iowa State. If the Hawkeyes lose this game, and particularly if they get conservative in doing so, then fan patience in Iowa City will run out.
2. Iowa State looked good in a 31-7 win over FCS power Northern Iowa. The Cyclones aren’t expected to do much of anything this year, but a win in this game would boost expectations.
3. Iowa elected to go with junior C.J. Beathard at quarterback this year over incumbent Jake Rudock, who has since transferred to Michigan. This is the kind of game Beathard can use to prove the coaches right.
Further reading
Check out Black Heart Gold Pants for more on Iowa and Wide Right & Natty Lite for more on Iowa State.
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