Iowa State vs. Kansas State 2025 NCAAF Preview: Odds, Schedule, and Expert Prediction
Iowa State vs. Kansas State Rivalry Spotlight
The matchup known as “Farmageddon” takes on a unique twist in 2025 as Iowa State and Kansas State face off on neutral ground in Dublin, Ireland. Historically, Iowa State holds a slight advantage in their rivalry record, and recent years have seen Iowa State claim victory in four of the last five meetings, including consecutive wins under coach Matt Campbell.
2025 Season Outlook and Early Betting Odds
Kansas State enters the 2025 season as a co-favorite to win the Big 12 title and is favored by a narrow margin in this opening game with a 3-point spread. Despite this, Iowa State comes in strong, fresh off their best season ever, and prepared to challenge their rivals.
2025 Week 0 Betting Lines
| Betting Market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Iowa State Moneyline | +140 |
| Kansas State Moneyline | -160 |
| Iowa State Spread (+3) | -110 |
| Kansas State Spread (-3) | -110 |
| Over 49.5 Points | -110 |
| Under 49.5 Points | -110 |
Game Details: When and Where
- Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland
- Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 11:00 a.m. ET
- Broadcast: ESPN
Iowa State Team Analysis and Upset Potential
Iowa State is coming off an exceptional season with an 11-3 record and a Big 12 title game appearance. The team returns 12 starters in 2025, including standout quarterback Rocco Becht, who has become the offensive leader. Defensively, key players like Jeremiah Cooper and Domonique Orange fortify the lineup. Under Matt Campbell’s decade-long leadership, Iowa State aims to build on its momentum.
With a respectable record against Kansas State — including last season’s 29-21 victory — the Cyclones are motivated to keep their edge in this rivalry. Although regarded as slight underdogs by bookmakers, Iowa State is expected to approach this neutral-site opener with high intensity to secure an early-season statement victory and keep their championship goals intact.
Why Kansas State is Favored by Oddsmakers
Kansas State brings stability with coach Chris Klieman entering his seventh year, known for fostering consistency and discipline. Last season’s 9-4 performance sets a solid baseline, and the Wildcats are poised to match or improve on that this year. Quarterback Avery Johnson’s breakout season, highlighted by dual-threat capabilities with over 2,700 passing yards and 600 rushing yards, positions him as a key factor in the Wildcats’ offense.
The team has also added depth in the backfield with the acquisition of running back Dylan Edwards and strengthened its wide receiver group to enhance offensive efficiency, aiming to improve Johnson’s completion rate and overall scoring potential.
Prediction for the 2025 Iowa State vs. Kansas State Game
The Aer Lingus Classic games in Ireland have a reputation for being fiercely competitive, with tight margins deciding most matchups. The Iowa State vs. Kansas State game is likely to follow suit, often decided by slim point differences. The forecast is for a hard-fought contest where Iowa State could keep the game within a field goal.
Our prediction leans toward backing the underdog Iowa State to cover the spread. While Kansas State might have the slight upper hand, the Cyclones are expected to challenge strongly and keep the game very close, making Iowa State +3 a solid pick.