The 2025 college football season kicks off with a Big 12 rivalry on foreign soil. On Saturday, August 23, Iowa State and Kansas State meet at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, for the Aer Lingus College Football Classic. The Cyclones come in ranked No. 21 after an 11-win campaign in 2024, while the Wildcats look to prove they can climb back into the Big 12 race after a 9-4 finish.
Both teams come into this game ranked in the Associated Press Top 25, the Wildcats are 17th, while the Cyclones are 22nd.
Iowa State’s returning core
Iowa State brings back a strong group of playmakers on offense, led by junior quarterback Rocco Becht. Becht threw for more than 3,500 yards last season and capped it off with a clutch performance in the Pop-Tarts Bowl against Miami. His steady improvement and poise in big moments have given the Cyclones confidence that he can guide them to another run at the Big 12 crown.
The Cyclones also return running back Carson Hansen, who broke out with 752 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns a year ago. Hansen’s ability to handle a heavy workload was clear in the bowl game, where he scored three times. With both Becht and Hansen back, Iowa State has an experienced and balanced attack that should test any defense. Head coach Matt Campbell has built a reputation for getting the most out of his roster, and this year’s group looks primed to keep that trend going.
Kansas State looks for a fast start
Kansas State’s offense will again revolve around junior quarterback Avery Johnson. Johnson showed off his dual-threat skills in 2024, throwing for 25 touchdowns while rushing for more than 600 yards. His mobility gives the Wildcats a dangerous wrinkle, and his growth as a passer has made him one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in the Big 12.
Running back Dylan Edwards is also back after exploding in the Rate Bowl with 196 yards on the ground. His speed and big-play ability make him a constant threat, and pairing him with Johnson creates a backfield that can stretch defenses in multiple ways. Head coach Chris Klieman knows his team must be sharper in conference play, and starting the season against a ranked rival offers a chance to set the tone.
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A Rivalry with some extra flavor
These two programs know each other well, and last season Iowa State edged Kansas State in a high-scoring battle. Meeting in Ireland adds another layer of intrigue, as both squads will be looking to handle the travel while putting on a show for fans overseas.
With returning stars on both sidelines and coaches who know how to win big games, this opener has all the ingredients for an electric start to the season.
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