Iowa State Cyclones Edge Kansas State Wildcats 24-21 in Classic

UPDATE: The Iowa State Cyclones secured a thrilling 24-21 victory over the Kansas State Wildcats in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic at Aviva Stadium on August 26, 2023. This matchup marked a historic opening to the US College Football season, drawing over 24,000 visitors to Dublin, offering a significant economic boost estimated at €130 million.

The tightly contested game featured six touchdowns—three from each team—culminating in a decisive field goal by Cyclones’ kicker Kyle Konrardy. Iowa State took the lead late in the first quarter as quarterback Rocco Becht connected with wide receiver Dominic Overby for a 23-yard touchdown, putting the Cyclones ahead 7-0.

Kansas State responded swiftly in the second quarter, with quarterback Avery Johnson rushing in for a 10-yard touchdown, leveling the score at 7-7. Despite a missed field goal attempt from Iowa State, the Cyclones regained momentum. Becht’s 24-yard pass to Brett Eskildsen extended Iowa State’s lead to 14-7 by the end of the third quarter.

Just as the Cyclones seemed to be in control, Kansas State leveled the match again with a 37-yard touchdown pass from Johnson to Jayce Brown, making it 14-14 with just over 14 minutes remaining.

The Cyclones responded with a field goal from Konrardy, edging ahead 17-14 as the clock ticked under 10 minutes. Iowa State then pushed their advantage to 24-14 after Becht’s 7-yard rushing touchdown, showcasing their resilience.

A last-minute effort by Kansas State led to a 65-yard touchdown pass from Johnson to Gerand Bradley, narrowing the score to 24-21. However, the Cyclones held on for a hard-fought win, marking a memorable chapter in the rivalry known as “Farmageddon.”

The game, broadcast live on ESPN, highlighted the growing international appeal of college football, with Dublin hosting its 13th US College Football game. Officials have already confirmed matches for 2026 and 2027 at Aviva Stadium, including teams like Texas Christian University and the University of North Carolina.

As the dust settles on this gripping encounter, fans and players alike are left buzzing from the excitement of the season opener. The Cyclones have taken home the Keough-Naughton College Football Ireland trophy, but the stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling college football season ahead.