A Revised Non‑Conference Landscape
The Cyclones have reshaped their football schedule for the next few years, adding an extra home game in 2027 and re‑aligning several non‑conference matchups. The changes reflect a strategic effort to balance regional travel, boost attendance and preserve traditional rivalries.
One of the most noticeable adjustments involves the game against Bowling Green. Originally slated for the opponent’s campus, the contest will now be played in Ames, giving Iowa State the advantage of a home crowd while still counting as a home game in the schedule.
The adjustments to the Tulane series are equally significant. The 2028 home game and the 2029 road game have both been moved to the first week of their respective seasons, ensuring that the Green Wave will open against the Cyclones on consecutive years.
Specifically, the 2028 season will open on August 26 at Jack Trice Stadium, while the 2029 campaign will kick off on August 25 at Yulman Stadium in New Orleans. Both games mark the first time the two programs meet in those particular weeks, creating a fresh narrative for fans.
Beyond the immediate schedule, Iowa State and the University of Iowa have agreed to extend the Cy‑Hawk football series through 2031. The agreement guarantees that the rivalry will continue with alternating home venues across the four‑year span, preserving the tradition that has defined the in‑state matchup for decades.
Implications for Fans and the Program
For Cyclone supporters, the revised slate offers a blend of familiar rivalries and new experiences. The added home game provides an extra opportunity to fill Jack Trice Stadium, while the relocated Tulane games promise early‑season excitement and potential television exposure.
From a logistical standpoint, the alternating venue arrangement for the Cy‑Hawk Series simplifies travel logistics for both fan bases and reduces the need for long‑distance trips in any given year. It also ensures that each school hosts the rivalry an equal number of times through 2031.
Looking further ahead, the schedule sets a clear framework for future non‑conference planning. By locking in dates and locations now, Iowa State can focus on conference preparation and recruiting, confident that the external matchups are secured.
A Glimpse at the Road Ahead
The coming years will see the Cyclones travel to Ohio to face Bowling Green in 2027, then head to Louisiana for a New Orleans showdown in 2029, before returning home for the renewed rivalry games. Each stop adds a layer of geographic diversity that enriches the overall schedule.
As the university continues to grow its athletic brand, these strategic adjustments underscore a commitment to competitive balance, fan engagement and long‑term stability on the gridiron.