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Farmageddon Heads to Ireland: K-State, Iowa State Clash in Historic Kickoff
College football’s 2025 season isn’t kicking off in the heartland — it’s launching in Dublin, Ireland, with a heated Big 12 rivalry: No. 17 Kansas State vs. No. 22 Iowa State.
This Aer Lingus Classic marks the first-ever Top 25 clash in Ireland and only the 11th college football game played on Irish soil since 1988. It’s not just the international setting that matters. With the College Football Playoff format expanded, this opener could be decisive in the Big 12 race.
For fans looking to lock in early value, don’t miss the latest college football picks and predictions available now.
Wildcats Bring Firepower, But Questions Remain
Kansas State will roll out a revamped offense under new OC Matt Wells. His weapon? Dual-threat sensation Avery Johnson, who logged over 3,300 total yards and 32 TDs last season. He’s joined by returning wideout Jayce Brown and explosive RB Dylan Edwards.
| K-State Impact Players | Stats (2024) |
|---|---|
| Avery Johnson (QB) | 2,712 yds passing / 605 yds rushing / 32 TDs |
| Jayce Brown (WR) | 823 yds / 5 TDs |
| Dylan Edwards (RB) | 546 yds / 7.4 YPC / 5 TDs |
The offensive line, however, remains a work in progress.
For full Wildcats stats and team info, visit the NCAAF teams page.
Cyclones Count on Becht, Reload at Receiver
On the other side, Iowa State QB Rocco Becht returns after airing it out for 3,505 yards and 25 scores. RB Carson Hansen brings back 752 yards and 13 touchdowns. The big challenge? Replacing top receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel.
ISU may have found a new deep threat in ECU transfer Chase Sowell, who averaged 19.9 yards per catch last season.
| Iowa State Offensive Leaders | Stats |
|---|---|
| Rocco Becht (QB) | 3,505 yds / 25 TDs |
| Carson Hansen (RB) | 752 yds / 13 TDs |
| Chase Sowell (WR – ECU) | 1,323 yds / 83 rec. career |
Looking to place a bet on this global showdown? Check out the real-time college football odds and scores for insights.
Coaching, Defense, and the X-Factors in Dublin
Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell emphasized focusing on their own execution — especially given K-State’s new look on offense and tendency to shift defensively. Meanwhile, Wildcats OC Matt Wells is eager to see how his young line performs in live action.
It could come down to who handles the moment better — or who scores last. Given the shootouts these teams ended 2024 with (ISU 42-41 over Miami, KSU 44-41 over Rutgers), expect fireworks.
Want a breakdown from betting pros? Dive into the expert NFL and CFB betting guide for strategy and insights.
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