Matt Campbell using Cy-Hawk rivalry to springboard ninth season

AMES, Ia. — The biggest game of the year in Iowa will take place Saturday afternoon at Kinnick Stadium, and the Cyclones are preparing to take advantage of the spotlight.

Although Matt Campbell is 1-6 against Kirk Ferentz, and Iowa State is making its’ first road trip of the season, he’s looking forward to the 71st game of the Cy-Hawk rivalry for many reasons. Not only is it an intense series, but it’s also the Big Ten against the Big 12, and a significant measuring stick for Campbell’s team early in the season.

With the landscape of College football constantly changing, including conference expansion, Campbell appreciates that Iowa State’s game against Iowa is still on the table every year.

“This game I think just means so much in general to the state of Iowa, both Universities, both fan bases, both alumni groups, and it’s the second game of the football season,” Campbell said. “You’re still really early in the season, and you’re trying to build and grow your football team on top of all that.”

Both teams won by double-digits over FCS opponents last week, and their quarterbacks played well. Rocco Becht threw for 267 yards and two touchdowns in Iowa State’s win over North Dakota. Cade McNamara passed for 251 yards and three touchdowns in Iowa’s victory over Illinois State.

The Cyclones’ defense only allowed a field goal, while the Hawkeyes pitched a shutout. Which is why Campbell knows something has to give.

“I think one of the great tests of this game is you’re forming it against a really good opponent, with a lot on the line  and a big game atmosphere that means a lot to a lot of people,” he said. “That’s the thing that’s unique in its’ own right, but I think you learn a lot about yourself post this game, of who you are, where you’re at in the growth process, and what are those areas you need to grow forward.”

Iowa State (1-0) is thin at linebacker because of injuries. What the Cyclones can build on is the fact that they were victorious in their last trip to Kinnick Stadium, which was in rainy conditions. Campbell thought his team didn’t play well in that game because of turnovers, but was grateful that they persevered.

He believes the experience his younger players received in last year’s game will be beneficial this time around. This battle is also a tune up before the Cyclones get into Big 12 play later this month. Iowa State even has a bye-week afterwards, and Campbell plans on utilizing every opportunity that he has in front of him over the next two weeks.

There’s no denying that a win in Iowa City will give the Cyclones the momentum they need to make some noise down the stretch, and that’s Campbell’s top priority.

“Ultimately no matter what happens, you need to be your best in October, November and December if you want to have the ability to be a Playoff and Championship football team, so this is a great opportunity to grow forward in week two of the football season.”