Iowa State vs Oklahoma State: Scores, Rivalry History, and Key Matchups

When you think of classic college sports, the Iowa State vs Oklahoma State matchup always comes to mind. These two schools have been playing each other for a very long time. They both belong to the Big 12 Conference. Every time they meet, fans know they are in for a treat. Whether it is on the football field or the basketball court, the energy is always high. People in Ames and Stillwater live for these game days.

The rivalry is special because both teams have very loyal fans. Iowa State fans are known for being loud and proud at Jack Trice Stadium. Oklahoma State fans love their Cowboys and make Boone Pickens Stadium a tough place to play. Over the years, we have seen amazing upsets and close finishes. This article will dive deep into the history of Iowa State vs Oklahoma State. We will look at the best games, the biggest stars, and what makes this pairing so fun to watch.

The Latest Results on the Gridiron

The football series between Iowa State vs Oklahoma State has been very competitive lately. In their most recent meeting on November 29, 2025, the Iowa State Cyclones traveled to Stillwater. They fought hard and came away with a big 20-13 victory. This win was a great way for the Cyclones to end their regular season. It showed that they could handle the pressure of playing in a hostile environment.

Before that, the teams had many close battles. In 2023, Iowa State won a high-scoring game with a final of 34-27. However, Oklahoma State has had plenty of success too. They won a tight defensive battle in 2022 by a score of 20-14. When you look at Iowa State vs Oklahoma State, you never know who will win. Both teams play a physical style of football that fans love. The games are usually decided in the final few minutes, which keeps everyone on the edge of their seats.

History of the Series: By the Numbers

If we look back at the history of Iowa State vs Oklahoma State, the Cowboys have the lead. They have won 34 times, while the Cyclones have won 22 times. There have also been three ties in their long history. The first time they ever played was all the way back in 1926! That is a century of sports history. Even though Oklahoma State has more wins overall, the series has been much closer in recent years.

Under coach Matt Campbell, Iowa State has become a much tougher opponent. He has led the Cyclones to several big wins over the Cowboys. On the other side, Mike Gundy has kept Oklahoma State as a top contender for a long time. The Iowa State vs Oklahoma State matchup is now a key game in the Big 12 standings every year. Both teams want to prove they are the best in the Midwest.

Detailed Matchup Comparison Table

Feature	Iowa State Cyclones	Oklahoma State Cowboys
Primary Colors	Cardinal and Gold	Orange and Black
Stadium	Jack Trice Stadium	Boone Pickens Stadium
Football All-Time Series	22 Wins	34 Wins (3 Ties)
Most Recent Result (2025)	20	13
Head Coach (Football)	Matt Campbell	Mike Gundy
Key Basketball Venue	Hilton Coliseum	Gallagher-Iba Arena

Basketball Battles at Hilton and GIA

The Iowa State vs Oklahoma State rivalry is just as intense on the hardwood. Iowa State’s “Hilton Magic” is a real thing. It is very hard for any team to win in Ames. Recently, on January 10, 2026, the No. 3 ranked Cyclones beat the Cowboys 83-71. It was a fast-paced game with lots of big shots. Iowa State used their strong defense to pull away in the second half.

Oklahoma State also has a legendary home court called Gallagher-Iba Arena. It is known as the “Rowdiest Arena in the Country.” In the 2025-26 season, Iowa State also managed to win in Stillwater with an 84-71 score. Even though the Cyclones are currently very strong, the Iowa State vs Oklahoma State basketball games are always must-watch TV. Both schools have a rich history of making the NCAA Tournament and producing NBA players.

Famous Moments in the Rivalry

One of the most famous games in Iowa State vs Oklahoma State history happened in 2011. Oklahoma State was ranked No. 2 in the nation and looking to play for a national title. However, Iowa State pulled off a massive upset in double overtime! That game changed the course of college football history. It is a moment that Cyclone fans will never forget and Cowboy fans still talk about.

Another great moment was the “Brock Purdy Game” in 2018. Purdy was a freshman quarterback who came off the bench. He led Iowa State to a wild 48-42 win in Stillwater. He threw for four touchdowns and ran for another. This game showed the world how special he was. It is just another example of how the Iowa State vs Oklahoma State series brings out the best in young athletes.

Game Day Traditions and Atmosphere

Going to an Iowa State vs Oklahoma State game is a unique experience. At Iowa State, you will hear the “Cyclone Weather Alert” siren before the team runs out. It sounds like a real storm is coming! The fans wear bright red and yellow, making the stadium look like a sea of cardinal and gold. Tailgating in Ames is also a huge tradition with lots of good food and friendly people.

In Stillwater, the traditions are just as cool. Before the game, a rider on a black horse named “Bullet” gallops across the field. The fans use orange paddles to bang against the stadium walls. This creates a rhythmic, thumping noise that can be very distracting for the other team. Whether you are at an Iowa State vs Oklahoma State game in Iowa or Oklahoma, you are going to see a lot of passion.

Key Players to Watch in 2026

For the Cyclones, quarterback Rocco Becht has been a star. He has a strong arm and makes smart plays. In the 2025 Iowa State vs Oklahoma State game, his leadership was a big reason why they won. On the basketball side, players like Tamin Lipsey and Milan Momcilovic are leaders. They play with a lot of heart and represent the school well.

Oklahoma State always has talented players too. In football, Rodney Fields Jr. has shown he can be a great running back. He is fast and hard to tackle. In basketball, players like Anthony Roy have been lighting up the scoreboard with three-pointers. When these stars meet in the Iowa State vs Oklahoma State matchups, the skill level is incredibly high. These are the players who will become the legends of tomorrow.

Wrestling: A Battle for Mat Supremacy

We cannot talk about Iowa State vs Oklahoma State without mentioning wrestling. Both schools are powerhouses in this sport. Oklahoma State has won more national titles than almost any other school. Iowa State also has a very proud wrestling history with many Olympic champions. When they meet for a dual, the atmosphere is electric.

In early 2026, the two teams met in a highly ranked showdown. The matches are always close and physical. Every point matters in these duals. The Iowa State vs Oklahoma State wrestling rivalry is considered one of the best in the entire country. It doesn’t matter if it’s in Ames or Stillwater; the gym will be packed with fans who know their wrestling.

Why This Rivalry Matters for the Big 12

The Iowa State vs Oklahoma State games are important for the whole conference. Since many big schools left for other leagues, these two have become the “anchors” of the Big 12. They represent the hard-working spirit of the Midwest. When they are both good, the conference gets more respect across the country.

Television networks love to broadcast Iowa State vs Oklahoma State because they know people will watch. The games are usually exciting and have high stakes. A win in this series can help a team get into a better bowl game or a higher seed in the basketball tournament. It is more than just a game; it is a battle for pride and position.

Looking Ahead to Future Matchups

Fans are already looking forward to the next time Iowa State vs Oklahoma State meet. Each year brings new players and new stories. Will Iowa State continue their recent winning streak? Or will Oklahoma State bounce back and take control of the series again? That is the beauty of college sports—you never truly know what will happen next.

One thing is for sure: the tickets will be hard to get. Fans from both sides will travel long distances to support their teams. The Iowa State vs Oklahoma State rivalry is built on respect and competition. As long as these two schools are in the same conference, this will be a date that every fan circles on their calendar.

Conclusion

In the end, the Iowa State vs Oklahoma State rivalry is one of the best parts of the Big 12. It features great athletes, legendary coaches, and the best fans in the world. From the football field to the wrestling mat, these two schools always give it their all. We have seen amazing history, and there is surely more to come in the future.

Whether you cheer for the Cyclones or the Cowboys, you have to appreciate the intensity. The Iowa State vs Oklahoma State series is a testament to what makes college sports so special. It brings communities together and creates memories that last a lifetime. Make sure you don’t miss the next chapter of this incredible story!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who has won more football games between Iowa State and Oklahoma State?

Oklahoma State leads the all-time football series with 34 wins, while Iowa State has 22 wins. There have also been 3 ties since they first played in 1926.

2. Where do these two teams play their home games?

Iowa State plays at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa. Oklahoma State plays at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

3. What was the score of the most recent football game?

In the most recent matchup on November 29, 2025, Iowa State beat Oklahoma State with a score of 20-13.

4. Is the rivalry between Iowa State and Oklahoma State only in football?

No, it is very intense in basketball and wrestling as well. Both schools are national leaders in wrestling and have very successful basketball programs.

5. What is “Hilton Magic”?

“Hilton Magic” refers to the special atmosphere at Iowa State’s Hilton Coliseum. The fans are so loud and close to the court that it helps the Cyclones win big games.

6. Who are the current head coaches for the football teams?

Matt Campbell is the head coach for the Iowa State Cyclones, and Mike Gundy is the head coach for the Oklahoma State Cowboys.