Iowa State Football Schedule 2025 – Full Breakdown and Key Matchups
What Can Fans Expect from the 2025 Iowa State Football Schedule?
Is there a more thrilling time of year for college football fans than the release of a brand-new season schedule? For supporters of the Iowa State Cyclones, the 2025 football season offers a dynamic mix of challenges, opportunities, and high-profile fixtures both at home and abroad.
With zero wins and losses logged so far, anticipation is building around what the team can achieve under pressure in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference.
The 2025 campaign includes 12 regular season games, evenly spread across home and away venues, with one international clash adding a global twist to the traditional American football landscape.
Whether it’s historic rivalries reigniting in Ames, or the Cyclones flying across the Atlantic to open their season in Ireland, the upcoming months promise a rich football experience for players, fans, and alumni alike.
Where Does the 2025 Season Begin for Iowa State?
The Cyclones will open their season with a landmark fixture that takes them far from the Midwest. On 23 August 2025, Iowa State will face Kansas State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, a marquee event hosted at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland.
Scheduled for an 11:00 AM kickoff, this neutral-site clash is more than just a game; it’s an international showcase of American college football.
Kansas State, ranked 17th heading into the season, will provide a formidable first test. This match not only sets the tone for the Cyclones’ year but also offers an unforgettable travel experience for fans able to make the journey across the Atlantic.
For those remaining stateside, ESPN will carry the live broadcast, ensuring no one misses out on this unique start to the season.
How Does the Home Schedule Shape Up for Iowa State in 2025?
Returning to Ames, Iowa State’s home fixtures present a compelling series of games at Jack Trice Stadium, one of the most atmospheric venues in college football.
The Cyclones are scheduled to host six games in total, with a balanced mix of non-conference tests and crucial Big 12 matchups.
Among the highlights is the annual Cy-Hawk rivalry game against Iowa on 6 September, an event that often transcends sport in the state of Iowa.
This fixture will be part of the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series and comes with a unique Colour-it-Cardinal theme, encouraging fans to dress in the team’s signature red.
Other notable home games include the Cyclone Club Day of Honor against South Dakota on 30 August, the White-Out Game against Arizona on 27 September, and a high-profile Homecoming and Hall of Fame Weekend when BYU visits Ames on 25 October.
These home matches are not just important competitively but also culturally, offering fans the chance to celebrate university traditions, support the team on familiar turf, and create lasting memories.
Who Will the Cyclones Face on the Road in 2025?
The away schedule poses a set of diverse challenges, with games scheduled in five different states. After the opener in Ireland, the Cyclones return to the U.S. for a trip to Jonesboro, Arkansas to face Arkansas State on 13 September.
Though not a Big 12 opponent, Arkansas State offers a critical early-season test in a road environment.
As the season progresses, Iowa State will visit several Big 12 venues, including Cincinnati on 4 October, Colorado on 11 October, TCU on 8 November, and finally Oklahoma State on 29 November.
Each of these games will likely have postseason implications, particularly the late-season matchups which could influence conference standings and bowl eligibility.
Travelling teams often face hostile atmospheres and difficult conditions, and how Iowa State performs on the road could be a key determinant of their overall success in 2025.
What Are the Key Big 12 Conference Fixtures for Iowa State This Year?
Nine of the twelve scheduled games fall within the Big 12 Conference, meaning the Cyclones will spend most of their season battling familiar rivals and recent additions to the league.
This includes both returning powers like Kansas State and TCU, as well as newer entrants such as Arizona, Arizona State, and BYU.
Some of the standout Big 12 fixtures include the early opener against Kansas State in Dublin, the home showdown with BYU during Homecoming, and tough road trips to Oklahoma State and TCU later in the season.
These games will be critical not only for the conference standings but also for establishing the Cyclones’ reputation as a rising force in the Big 12.
With the conference expanding and evolving, every fixture offers a new narrative, and each win becomes all the more valuable in a crowded race for championship contention.
How Will Game Day Traditions Be Celebrated in 2025?
Game day in Ames is about much more than what happens on the field. Over the years, Iowa State has built a vibrant tradition around its football programme, with themed games and celebratory weekends adding depth to the fan experience.
In 2025, fans can look forward to a variety of special events designed to honour the community and inspire support. The Cyclone Club Day of Honor, held during the South Dakota game, acknowledges the supporters who invest in the programme’s future.
The White-Out Game, when the Cyclones take on Arizona, aims to create a unified sea of white in the stands, amplifying the home advantage. And during Homecoming and Hall of Fame Weekend, alumni return to celebrate with current students and athletes, making it one of the most festive dates on the calendar.
These themed events not only enrich the game day atmosphere but also play a critical role in uniting past and present Cyclones around a shared identity.
When and Where Is the 2025 Big 12 Championship Game?
Should Iowa State finish the season near the top of the Big 12 standings, they’ll earn a place in the Big 12 Championship Game, scheduled for Saturday, 6 December 2025. The match will be held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with a kickoff time of 11:00 AM.
While the Cyclones have yet to secure their spot, the roadmap is clear: strong conference performances, especially in October and November, could pave the way for a historic postseason appearance. The championship not only offers a trophy but often plays a deciding role in College Football Playoff selections.
What Is the Full 2025 Schedule for Iowa State Football?
Below is the complete and updated schedule for the Cyclones’ 2025 campaign:
| Date | Opponent | Location | Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 23 | Kansas State (#17) | Dublin, Ireland | 11:00 AM | Big 12 (Neutral) |
| Aug 30 | South Dakota | Ames, Iowa | 2:30 PM | Non-Conference |
| Sep 6 | Iowa | Ames, Iowa | 11:00 AM | Non-Conference |
| Sep 13 | Arkansas State | Jonesboro, Arkansas | 3:00 PM | Non-Conference |
| Sep 27 | Arizona | Ames, Iowa | TBA | Big 12 |
| Oct 4 | Cincinnati | Cincinnati, Ohio | TBA | Big 12 |
| Oct 11 | Colorado | Boulder, Colorado | TBA | Big 12 |
| Oct 25 | BYU | Ames, Iowa | TBA | Big 12 |
| Nov 1 | Arizona State | Ames, Iowa | TBA | Big 12 |
| Nov 8 | TCU | Fort Worth, Texas | TBA | Big 12 |
| Nov 22 | Kansas | Ames, Iowa | TBA | Big 12 |
| Nov 29 | Oklahoma State | Stillwater, Oklahoma | TBA | Big 12 |
| Dec 6 | Big 12 Championship | Arlington, Texas | 11:00 AM | Conference Title |
What Travel and Viewing Options Are Available for Fans?
Fans planning to support the Cyclones either at home or on the road should start preparing early, especially for key games like the Dublin opener or late-season conference deciders.
Travel packages for the Aer Lingus College Football Classic will be released via the athletics department and affiliated travel agents. For domestic games, fans are advised to check with host stadiums and ticket platforms for seating availability. Popular outlets such as Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, and StubHub typically offer resale options as well.
Broadcasts for all games, starting with ESPN for the opener, will be determined closer to each fixture. Local and national networks, along with streaming services, are expected to carry most of the season’s games, offering fans a variety of ways to stay connected.
What Are the Expectations and Predictions for Iowa State in 2025?
With a balanced schedule and a mix of high-stakes contests, Iowa State has a genuine opportunity to make strides in the Big 12 this season.
The international opener offers a chance to make a statement early, while the back half of the schedule includes critical matchups that could determine bowl eligibility and conference standing.
Team performance will ultimately depend on player development, coaching adjustments, and how the Cyclones handle pressure in key moments. Early wins could build momentum, but consistency throughout October and November will be vital.
What Questions Are Fans Asking About the 2025 Cyclone Schedule?
What makes the Dublin game significant for Iowa State?
It’s the first time the Cyclones have played internationally, adding prestige and visibility to the programme.
How are kickoff times determined for TBA games?
Kickoff times are typically decided by the broadcasting networks in coordination with the NCAA and Big 12 Conference.
Are themed home games scheduled every season?
Yes, themed games like White-Out, Homecoming, and rivalry fixtures are annual traditions that continue to evolve.
Can fans attend away games?
Yes, tickets for away games are available through both Iowa State and host team websites, as well as through third-party vendors.
Will Iowa State be competitive in the Big 12 this year?
The schedule presents opportunities for strong performances, especially if the team can secure wins at home and remain disciplined on the road.
What’s the best way to follow the team if I can’t attend in person?
Live broadcasts, social media updates, and official university apps offer comprehensive coverage.
Is there student ticket pricing available?
Yes, Iowa State offers discounted ticket packages for students. Information is typically released in the summer before the season begins.
