Iowa State Cyclones Face a Gauntlet of Elite Big 12 Opponents in 2026
The Cyclones will test their resilience against five marquee matchups, each presenting distinct challenges that could define their season under a new coaching era.
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The Cyclones will test their resilience against five marquee matchups, each presenting distinct challenges that could define their season under a new coaching era.
The Cyclones will open the 2026 campaign against a mix of FCS and Power Five opponents, featuring notable games against Iowa Hawkeyes, Utah Utes and BYU Cougars.
After finishing 11‑2 and capturing the Pop‑Tarts Bowl, the BYU Cougars are poised for a breakout 2026 season. With key players back and a slate of high‑profile games, the team hopes to translate its momentum into a College Football Playoff push.
After a dominant 11‑2 campaign and a Pop‑Tarts Bowl victory, the Cougars bring back key players and a favorable slate of games that promise excitement for fans and newcomers alike.

The latest Big 12 preseason football rankings reveal a competitive landscape, with Texas Tech leading the pack and several programs poised for breakthroughs.

Phil Steele’s preseason All‑American selections highlight a mix of returning stars and breakout talents, from Oregon’s Dante Moore to Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, setting the stage for a competitive 2026 campaign.

The network’s unofficial rankings reveal a stark contrast between conference expectations and the Cyclones’ recent changes, highlighting key players and the upcoming opener against the Redhawks.
The network’s early rankings place Iowa State at the bottom of the Big 12, while Texas Tech is projected to repeat as champions, and three Iowa State players receive honorable‑mention recognition.
The Big 12 announced its 2026 preseason awards, omitting Iowa State despite an 8‑4 record, while highlighting new head coach Jimmy Rogers, a massive roster overhaul, and award winners L.J. Martin, A.J. Holmes and Drew Mestemaker.