Cyclones Face Iowa's QB Puzzle | Iowa Hawkeyes Football News

0:00It's September 9th. Welcome in. This is Iowa Hawkeyes Football News Today, where your team meets AI. I'm Cory with the story. Iowa State kicked off their 2026 football season with a solid win, taking down Southeast Missouri State by a score of 38-2. 10. That's a good start for the cyclones, especially with a big rivalry game on the horizon. They're heading to Iowa City to face the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Si Hawk rivalry, and for Coach Jimmy Rogers, it's his first taste of this intense. Match up. The Hawkeyes also had a dominant opening game, shutting out Northern Illinois with a 40-0 victory. But for Iowa State's defense, the real challenge isn't just facing Iowa, it's the uncertainty at the quarterback position. They're preparing for two different styles of play, which adds a layer of complexity to their game planning. Coach Rogers mentioned that one quarterback is more of a pocket passer, while the other has shown more mobility. He acknowledged that both have had moments of success, and he doesn't see a massive drop-off

1:04between them. This means the cyclone's defense needs to be ready for anything, regardless of who takes the snaps. The Hawkeyes' offensive scheme is a major focus, particularly how they utilize their top-wide receiver. He was a primary target in their first game, racking up significant yardage and catching a touchdown. To have a shot at an upset, Iowa State's defensive line will need to apply pressure and disrupt Iowa's rhythm. Ultimately, winning the battle in the trenches will be crucial for the cyclones. If their defensive players can continue to make plays like they did in the opener, they'll be in a strong position to challenge the Hawkeyes on the road. This rivalry game always brings out the best, and is shaping up to be another classic.