What's Happening?
The 2025 NCAA Football season kicks off with the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, featuring a matchup between the Iowa State Cyclones and the Kansas State Wildcats. This game marks the first time both teams will play in the Dublin classic, providing an early opportunity to gain an edge in the Big 12 conference standings. Last season, Iowa State reached the Big 12 title game but fell to Arizona, while Kansas State concluded their season with a victory over Rutgers in the 2024 Rate Bowl. Historically, Iowa State has dominated recent matchups against Kansas State, winning four out of the last five encounters. The game is set to take place at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, and will be broadcast on ESPN.
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Why It's Important?
The Aer Lingus College Football Classic not only serves as the season opener but also highlights the growing international appeal of college football. For Iowa State and Kansas State, this game is crucial for setting the tone for their respective seasons and gaining an early advantage in the competitive Big 12 conference. The event also underscores the strategic importance of international games in expanding the sport's global reach and fan base. Additionally, the game offers significant exposure for both teams, potentially impacting recruitment and future scheduling of international games.
What's Next?
Following the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, both Iowa State and Kansas State will return to the United States to continue their regular season schedules. The outcome of this game could influence their rankings and momentum as they progress through the season. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the teams perform in this high-profile international setting, which could lead to more opportunities for similar events in the future.
