The Iowa Hawkeyes entered the week ranked No. 22 in both the AP and US LBM Coaches Poll, but a commanding 40‑0 victory over Northern Illinois propelled them to No. 21, marking a shutout and a statement performance to open the season.
Cy‑Hawk Challenge Looms
Running back Kamari Moulton surged ahead with a career‑high 183 rushing yards, while receiver Tony Diaz contributed seven catches for 84 yards, helping Iowa outgain the Huskies 507‑120 in total yardage.
Special teams added a spark when Furman transfer Evan James turned a punt into a touchdown, underscoring the depth of the Hawkeyes' early‑season surge.
Iowa State, still reeling from the departures of head coach Matt Campbell and several key players to Penn State, is in a rebuilding phase under first‑year coach Jimmy Rogers, a transition highlighted by a 38‑10 win over Southeast Missouri State in which quarterback Jaylen Raynor threw four touchdowns.
The Cyclones have taken the upper hand in recent Cy‑Hawk meetings, winning the last two matchups, a trend that promises a demanding test for the Hawkeyes as they prepare for the rivalry game.