In one of most pivotal games in the new-look Big 12, No. 22 Iowa State overpowered No. 17 Kansas State 24-21 in Dublin, Ireland, to kick off the 2025 college football season. A sloppy first half mixed with turnovers amid the pouring rain gave way to an explosive second half filled with points and precision.

The Cyclones skipped across the pond to meet and defeat Kansas State in a classic week one rivalry matchup 24-21. Quarterback Rocco Becht put the team on his back with 183 yards and two touchdowns through the air,

After Iowa State’s rivalry win in Dublin, Matt Campbell made sure to address a pointed pregame remark from Kansas State’s athletic director.

Yes, Rocco Becht is Anthony Becht's son. Anthony was a star tight end at West Virginia and a first-round pick in the 2000 NFL Draft. He enjoyed an 11-year NFL career and is now the head coach of the UFL's St. Louis Battlehawks. Rocco is the son of Anthony and his wife, DeeAnn. In addition to Rocco, the couple has a daughter, Olivia.

Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht had a strong start to the 2025 season when his team faced Kansas State on Saturday at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland.

However, the momentum didn't last long for Iowa State, and on second and goal at the Wildcasts' 1-yard line, a botched toss from quarterback Rocco Becht to Abu Sama resulted in a fumble, which Kansas State recovered.