Iowa State football, under head coach Matt Campbell, has shown consistent improvement, and the 2024 season holds considerable promise. The Cyclones are aiming for another strong showing in the Big 12, with aspirations of reaching the title game and securing a 10-win season.
Iowa State football, under head coach Matt Campbell, has shown consistent improvement, and the 2024 season holds considerable promise. The Cyclones are aiming for another strong showing in the Big 12, with aspirations of reaching the title game and securing a 10-win season.
A key factor in Iowa State's potential success is the return of starting quarterback Rocco Becht, who has shown promise. The return of top rushers Carsen Hansen and Abu Sama III, along with Gabe Burkle and Benjamin Brahmer, provides a solid foundation. While the Cyclones lost key receivers like Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins, Campbell and his staff have been active in the transfer portal to address those needs.
Defensively, Iowa State returns key players like Tyler Miller, Dylan Barrett, and Brendan Black on the offensive line. The defense is anchored by Kooper Ebel, Jeremiah Cooper, Cael Brezina, Jontez Williams, and Domonique Orange, with rising stars like Rylan Barnes and Beau Goodwin expected to play larger roles. Specialists Tyler Perkins, Kyle Konrardy, Drew Clausen, and Jace T. Gilbert are also back.
Iowa State's recent performance, including a strong finish to the 2024 season with a win in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, demonstrates their ability to compete at a high level. While replacing key players is always a challenge, the combination of returning talent and strategic additions through the transfer portal positions Iowa State to be a contender in the Big 12.