Iowa State Triumphs Over Kansas State in Thrilling Dublin Opener

The college football season started off with a wild one between Kansas State and Iowa State, and the whole thing went down in Ireland. Iowa State pulled off a 24-21 win over Kansas State, even though the weather was a mess.

This opener set the mood for the whole season and gave us a look at some players and moments that could shake up the Big 12. Some games just have that energy, you know?

Game Overview: Iowa State vs. Kansas State

Kansas State and Iowa State kicked off the season with a dramatic battle. They played in Dublin, but the weather was a nightmare—rain washed away yard lines and smoke from the pregame fireworks just hung around the field.

That chaos played into an early injury for Kansas State’s Dylan Edwards. He’s a big part of their backfield and losing him early was a gut punch.

Key Moments and Player Performances

Edwards’ injury changed everything. He came over from Colorado and rushed for 564 yards last year, but after a muffed punt, he couldn’t get back on the field.

Sophomore Joe Jackson had to step up, though he just doesn’t have Edwards’ spark. That’s a tough spot for any young player.

Meanwhile, Iowa State’s quarterback Rocco Becht took charge. He got knocked around early—four sacks, a few drops—but still managed to complete 14 of 28 passes for 183 yards and two touchdowns.

Becht even ran in the game-winning touchdown in the fourth quarter. With top receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel gone to the NFL, Becht’s performance really mattered.

Impact of Weather Conditions

The Dublin weather was a huge factor. Rain made the field slick and erased the yard lines, so players had trouble keeping their footing.

ESPN’s Dave Pasch even suggested that leftover smoke from the fireworks might’ve messed with Edwards’ vision, which led to his muffed punt and injury. Both teams had to figure things out on the fly.

Coaching Decisions and Strategies

Iowa State coach Matt Campbell clearly trusted Becht. Asked about a gutsy fourth-down pass, Campbell said his quarterback’s calm under pressure gave him the confidence to go for it.

That call worked out—Becht hit tight end Gabe Burkle and running back Carson Hansen for key plays that sealed the win. Those are the moments that stick with you.

Kansas State coach Chris Klieman had his own problems to solve. With Edwards sidelined, he leaned more on Avery Johnson’s arm and Joe Jackson’s legs.

Johnson completed 21 of 30 passes for 273 yards and two touchdowns. Still, Iowa State’s defense just wouldn’t break.

Future Outlook for Both Teams

Iowa State’s win puts them at the top of the Big 12 for now. With Becht leading the way, they look like real contenders for the conference title.

They’ll play South Dakota next, then get a real test against Iowa. Let’s see if they can keep the momentum going.

Kansas State’s Upcoming Challenges

Kansas State didn’t get the result they wanted, but there’s a lot to like about this team. Their defense has speed and grit—they’ll stay in games.

They’re hosting North Dakota and Army before diving back into Big 12 play against Arizona. If Edwards misses more time, they’ll need to figure things out fast.

• Next Opponents: North Dakota, Army, Arizona
• Key Players to Watch: Avery Johnson, Joe Jackson

Standout Players and Statistics

Some guys really popped in this opener. For Iowa State, Rocco Becht was the clear star—183 passing yards, two touchdowns, and he ran in the winning score.