Given how much animosity exists between the Iowa football fan base and the Iowa State football fan base, it’s hard to believe that this series represents just the 8th longest series in Hawkeye’s history. They’ve played Minnesota, Wisconsin, Purdue, Northwestern, Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio State more, but the hate that exists for Iowa State runs deep.
The rivalry divides a relatively docile and calm state for an entire week every single football season, regardless of how either team is doing.
This week is a bit different though.
For the first time, both teams are considered top-25 caliber teams (although Iowa State may need a bit of work to get back in to the actual top-25), and for the first time in Iowa State history and in the history of the CyHawk rivalry game, this game will be hosting ESPN’s College GameDay.