Rogers Takes the Helm for the Cyclones
The 2026 Cy-Hawk rivalry will resume on September 12, when the Iowa Hawkeyes host the Iowa State Cyclones in Iowa City. The matchup, steeped in history, draws statewide attention each year, and this edition arrives with a fresh storyline.
Iowa State announced that veteran coach Jimmy Rogers will lead the team for the upcoming season, succeeding Matt Campbell, who left for a similar role at Penn State. Rogers, who previously served as an assistant under Kirk Ferentz, brings a deep understanding of the program’s culture.
Early betting lines from FanDuel place Iowa as a 12.5‑point favorite, underscoring the Hawkeyes’ perceived edge despite the Cyclones having won three of the last four meetings, a streak that includes a vacated 2023 contest.
The coaching change comes at a pivotal moment for Iowa State, which is looking to build on recent successes while integrating new offensive schemes. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how Rogers will shape the team’s direction.