AMES, Iowa (AP) — The annual matchup between the Cyclones and Hawkeyes is viewed as perhaps the biggest sporting event of the year in Iowa. The game might not feel quite so big this year though, because Iowa and Iowa State are off to unimpressive starts. The Cyclones insist that Saturday’s matchup will be as intense as ever.

Iowa State is 0-1 after losing to FCS school Northern Iowa. The only win for the Hawkeyes (1-1) came last weekend against lowly FCS opponent Missouri State. Those early stumbles have threatened to take some of the buzz out of the 61st meeting between the state’s largest schools. Cyclones coach Paul Rhoads says this week is always electric, adding that there is great energy and emotion surrounding this game.