Iowa State football is celebrating a remarkable 2024 season, achieving a significant milestone with a 10-2 record after a 29-21 victory over Kansas State in the recent “Farmageddon” matchup. This marks the first time in the program’s history that the Cyclones have reached ten wins in a single season, laying the groundwork for even greater ambitions.
Looking ahead, the Cyclones, under the leadership of coach Matt Campbell, are set to compete against No. 13 Arizona State in the Big 12 Championship game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. A victory in this pivotal match could secure Iowa State a spot in the College Football Playoff, where they would have the opportunity to compete among the elite for a national title.
Despite the lofty aspiration of playoff participation, winning the Big 12 Championship itself would represent a significant achievement for Iowa State. Historically, the program has not yet clinched a Big 12 title since the league’s inception in 1996, making this championship game particularly momentous.
This will be Iowa State’s second appearance in the Big 12 Championship, following their first visit during the 2020 season when they lost to Oklahoma. That season, an impressive 8-2 team featuring future NFL stars came up just short but went on to triumph over Oregon in the Fiesta Bowl.
While the quest for a Big 12 title remains unfulfilled, it’s worth noting that Iowa State does hold two conference championships from its earlier years in the Missouri Valley Intercollegiate Athletic Association, in 1911 and 1912, predating the current league structure.
As the Cyclones embark on this exciting opportunity, fans are filled with hope and anticipation for what could be a historic season in Iowa State football history. The team’s resilience and determination could very well lead them to their first Big 12 Championship, making the future look bright for the program.