The Iowa State Cyclones are poised to make a statement in the 2025 college football season. Led by a dynamic offense and a stingy defense, the Cyclones have all the makings of a Big 12 contender. With a seasoned coaching staff and a talented roster, Iowa State is ready to take the next step and compete for a conference championship.
The Cyclones’ offense is expected to be one of the most explosive in the Big 12. Quarterback Hunter Dekkers returns for his senior season after leading the conference in passing yards and touchdowns in 2024. He will have a wealth of weapons to work with, including All-Big 12 wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson and running back Jirehl Brock. The offensive line is also expected to be a strength, led by All-American guard Trevor Downing.
The Cyclones’ defense is also expected to be a force to be reckoned with. Defensive end Will McDonald IV is one of the most dominant pass rushers in the country, and he will be joined by a talented cast of linebackers and defensive backs. The Cyclones have also added some key transfers this offseason, including safety Craig McDonald from LSU. With all these pieces in place, the Cyclones are poised to make a run at a Big 12 championship in 2025.
A Season of Renewal and Redemption
The 2025 season marked a transformative chapter in Iowa State football history. After a string of disappointing campaigns, the Cyclones embarked on a journey of renewal and redemption under the leadership of new head coach Matt Campbell. With a roster brimming with young talent and a renewed sense of purpose, Iowa State set out to reclaim its former glory.
Campbell, a highly respected coach with a proven track record of developing programs, instilled a culture of accountability and hard work. He revamped the offense, implementing a dynamic spread attack that emphasized speed and explosiveness. On defense, Campbell’s emphasis on physicality and aggressive play-calling helped create a formidable unit.
The Cyclones’ schedule included a challenging slate of non-conference opponents, including a high-profile matchup against perennial powerhouse Alabama. However, Iowa State refused to be intimidated, showcasing its grit and determination. Led by a dynamic offense and a stout defense, the Cyclones upset Alabama in a thrilling overtime victory that sent shockwaves throughout the college football landscape.
Building a Foundation for Success
The 2025 season was not without its setbacks. Iowa State faced adversity in the form of injuries and tough losses. However, through it all, the team never lost sight of its goals. Campbell’s leadership provided stability and guidance, fostering a sense of unity and resilience among the players.
Offensively, quarterback Hunter Dekkers emerged as a true star, leading the Cyclones to record-setting offensive performances. Running back Jirehl Brock proved to be a versatile threat, combining speed and power to keep defenses on edge. The receiving corps, anchored by Xavier Hutchinson, provided Dekkers with a reliable group of playmakers.
Defensively, linebacker Colby Reeder was a force to be reckoned with, leading the team in tackles and setting a school record for sacks. Defensive tackle Isaiah Lee anchored the defensive line, providing an imposing presence and disrupting opposing offenses.
The Cyclones’ success in 2025 laid a solid foundation for the future. With a young and talented roster, a dedicated coaching staff, and a renewed sense of purpose, Iowa State football was poised to continue its ascent towards national prominence.
A Fanatical Fan Base
Throughout the 2025 season, Iowa State fans packed Jack Trice Stadium to capacity, creating an electric atmosphere. The Cyclone faithful played a vital role in the team’s success, providing unwavering support and inspiring the players to perform at their best.
The Cyclones’ resurgence ignited a renewed sense of excitement in the fan base. Season ticket sales soared, and fans from all corners of the state flocked to Ames to witness the team’s transformation.
The fan base’s passion and energy were evident in both wins and losses. Iowa State fans remained steadfast in their support, creating a true home-field advantage for the Cyclones.
Contributions of Key Players
| Player | Position | Notable Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| Hunter Dekkers | Quarterback | Led the Cyclones to record-setting offensive performances |
| Jirehl Brock | Running Back | Versatile threat with speed and power |
| Xavier Hutchinson | Wide Receiver | Reliable target for Dekkers |
| Colby Reeder | Linebacker | Leading tackler and school record holder for sacks |
| Isaiah Lee | Defensive Tackle | Imposing presence and disruptive force |
Subtitle 1: The Rise of a New Quarterback
With the departure of veteran quarterback Hunter Dekkers, the Cyclones will turn to a new signal-caller to lead their offense in 2025. The most likely candidate is redshirt freshman Rocco Becht.
Rocco Becht: The Next Great Cyclones Quarterback?
Becht, a native of West Des Moines, Iowa, was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school. He passed for 4,000 yards and 40 touchdowns as a senior at Dowling Catholic High School, leading his team to a state championship. Becht redshirted his first season at Iowa State in 2022 and served as Dekkers’ backup in 2023 and 2024. He has limited game experience, but he impressed the coaching staff with his arm strength, accuracy, and leadership skills.
Other potential quarterback candidates include redshirt sophomore Aidan Bouman and true freshman Deuce Hogan. However, Becht is the clear front-runner and is expected to start the majority of games in 2025.
A Dynamic Offensive Attack
Iowa State’s offense is poised to make a significant impact in 2025. Led by a trio of talented quarterbacks, the Cyclones will have a deep passing attack that can stretch the field. Running backs will provide a solid complement to the passing game, and the offensive line is expected to be one of the best in the Big 12.
Passing Attack
The Cyclones’ passing attack is led by quarterback Hunter Dekkers. Dekkers is a 6’3″, 230-pound junior who has thrown for over 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in his career. He is a mobile quarterback who can make plays with his arm and his legs.
In addition to Dekkers, the Cyclones have two other talented quarterbacks in Aidan Bouman and Deuce Hogan. Bouman is a 6’4″, 225-pound redshirt sophomore who has shown flashes of brilliance. Hogan is a 6’0″, 190-pound true freshman who is considered to be one of the top quarterback prospects in the country.
The Cyclones have a deep and talented group of receivers. Tarique Milton is a 6’2″, 215-pound senior who is one of the best receivers in the Big 12. He is a big target who is difficult to cover. Jaylin Noel is a 6’0″, 190-pound junior who is a dangerous slot receiver. He is quick and has great hands.
| Player | Position | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hunter Dekkers | QB | 6’3″ | 230 lbs |
| Aidan Bouman | QB | 6’4″ | 225 lbs |
| Deuce Hogan | QB | 6’0″ | 190 lbs |
| Tarique Milton | WR | 6’2″ | 215 lbs |
| Jaylin Noel | WR | 6’0″ | 190 lbs |
A Resurgent Defense
Key Players and New Faces
The resurgence of the Iowa State defense is largely due to the return of several key players. Cornerback Anthony Johnson and defensive end Will McDonald IV are both preseason All-American candidates. Linebacker O’Rien Vance is also back after leading the team in tackles last season.
Scheme Changes
In addition to personnel changes, the defense is also implementing some new schemes. The most notable change is the addition of a 3-3-5 base alignment. This alignment features three down linemen, three linebackers, and five defensive backs. The scheme is designed to create pressure on the quarterback and force turnovers.
Improved Pass Rush
One of the biggest weaknesses of the Iowa State defense last season was its pass rush. The Cyclones finished with just 18 sacks, which was tied for last in the Big 12. This season, the defense is expected to be much more effective at getting after the quarterback thanks to the addition of several new players. Will McDonald IV is a particularly dangerous pass rusher. He led the team with 8.5 sacks last season and is expected to be even better this year. Other players who could contribute to the pass rush include defensive end Zach Petersen and linebacker Colby Reeder.
| Player | Position | Sacks in 2021 |
|—|—|—|
| Will McDonald IV | Defensive end | 8.5 |
| Zach Petersen | Defensive end | 3.5 |
| Colby Reeder | Linebacker | 2.0 |
Subtitle 4: A Strong Running Game
The Cyclones’ running game is poised to be a major strength in 2025, led by a trio of talented running backs:
Jirehl Brock
Brock, a 5-foot-10, 200-pound sophomore, is the most experienced member of the group and led the team in rushing last season with 850 yards and 12 touchdowns. He is known for his speed, agility, and ability to break tackles.
Aidan Bouman
Bouman, a 6-foot-2, 230-pound redshirt freshman, is a powerful runner with a low center of gravity. He is expected to complement Brock with his physicality and ability to churn out tough yards.
Deon Silas
Silas, a true freshman from Texas, is the most highly touted recruit of the bunch. He is a 5-foot-11, 185-pound athlete with blazing speed and elusiveness. Silas is expected to provide a change of pace and create big plays in the open field.
| Name | Ht/Wt | Class |
|---|---|---|
| Jirehl Brock | 5’10″/200 lbs | Sophomore |
| Aidan Bouman | 6’2″/230 lbs | Redshirt Freshman |
| Deon Silas | 5’11″/185 lbs | True Freshman |
The running game will be crucial to Iowa State’s success in 2025, as it provides balance to the offense and helps open up the passing game. With a combination of speed, power, and athleticism, the Cyclones’ trio of running backs is well-positioned to lead the team to a successful season.
Subtitle 5: A New Era of Play Calling
A Shift in Offensive Philosophy
With the departure of longtime offensive coordinator Mark Mangino, Iowa State football enters a new era of play calling. Mangino’s predictable and conservative approach has given way to a more aggressive and imaginative offense under first-year coordinator Brian Ferentz.
Increased Use of Spread Formations
Ferentz has been known for his innovative use of the spread formation throughout his career. He is expected to implement a more high-tempo, up-tempo offense that will utilize a variety of formations and personnel groupings.
Emphasis on Quarterback Mobility
Iowa State has struggled with quarterback consistency in recent years. Ferentz will be looking to utilize quarterbacks who can make plays with their legs as well as their arms. This will allow the Cyclones to create more explosive plays and keep defenses honest.
Improved Offensive Line Play
The offensive line has been a major weakness for Iowa State in recent years. Ferentz will be looking to improve the unit’s performance in both the run and pass game. He has brought in several experienced linemen through the transfer portal, and the Cyclones will be hoping for a significant improvement up front.
Scheme Diversity and Innovation
Ferentz is known for his willingness to experiment with different offensive schemes. He is expected to use a variety of formations, motions, and play designs to keep opposing defenses guessing. This will help the Cyclones create more scoring opportunities and keep the ball out of the hands of their opponents.
Impact on Iowa State’s Offense
The new offensive philosophy is expected to have a major impact on Iowa State’s offense. The Cyclones will be looking to score more points, convert more third downs, and control the time of possession. They will also be hoping to protect the football better and reduce turnovers.
Subtitle 6: A Culture of Excellence
7. Committed to Development
At Iowa State, excellence is not merely an aspiration; it’s a relentless pursuit. The program fosters a culture where every player and coach is driven to maximize their potential. Through individualized development plans and dedicated support systems, Iowa State ensures that each student-athlete has the resources and guidance they need to reach their full potential on and off the field.
The Cyclones have meticulously designed a training regimen that caters to the unique strengths and weaknesses of each player. State-of-the-art facilities provide players with the tools and environment to train and improve at an elite level. From the weight room to the film room, Iowa State’s coaches demand accountability and provide constant feedback, helping players identify areas for growth and improvement.
A commitment to personal and athletic development extends beyond the football field. Iowa State’s academic support staff works tirelessly to ensure that players succeed in the classroom and beyond. The program emphasizes time management, study habits, and academic counseling, equipping players with the skills they need to thrive both on and off the field.
Key Developmental Programs: |
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Subtitle 7: A Passionate Fan Base
8. The Cy-Hawk Rivalry
The most intense rivalry in Iowa State football is undoubtedly the Cy-Hawk Rivalry against the Iowa Hawkeyes. This annual contest dates back to 1894 and has been played over 100 times. The rivalry is so intense that fans from both sides often tailgate together before the game and then cheer passionately for their respective teams. The Cy-Hawk Trophy is awarded to the winner of the game each year, and it is one of the most coveted trophies in college football.
| Year | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Iowa State | 27-17 |
| 2022 | Iowa | 24-10 |
| 2023 | TBD | TBD |
Subtitle 8: A Return to National Prominence
9. A Dominant Defense
In 2023, Iowa State led the FBS in total defense, allowing just 254.4 yards per game. With eight starters returning in 2025, including All-American candidate safety Dillon Doyle, the Cyclones are poised to continue their dominance on that side of the ball. Coordinated by Jon Heacock, Iowa State’s hard-hitting, swarming defense is expected to stifle opposing offenses and create countless turnovers. The Cyclones’ physicality and relentless pursuit will make them a nightmare for opponents to face, setting the stage for a run at a national championship.
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Dillon Doyle | Safety |
| Will McDonald IV | Defensive End |
| Gerry Vaughn | Linebacker |
Subtitle 9: The Future of Iowa State Football is Bright
10. A Tradition of Success in the Making
Iowa State Football has a long and rich tradition of success. For nearly a century, the Cyclones have been competing at the highest level of college football. They have won numerous conference championships and bowl games and have consistently ranked among the top teams in the Big 12. The program’s success is built upon a strong foundation of tradition and values. Iowa State is known for its tough, physical play and its relentless pursuit of victory. The Cyclones have a winning tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. This tradition is based on a commitment to hard work, dedication, and excellence. It is a tradition that has helped Iowa State Football become one of the most successful programs in the country.
| Season | Record | Coach |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 9-3 | Matt Campbell |
| 2021 | 7-6 | Matt Campbell |
| 2022 | 8-5 | Matt Campbell |
Iowa State’s success is not limited to the field. The program has also been a leader in academics. The Cyclones have consistently ranked among the top 25 schools in the country in terms of graduation success rates. They are also a model for community involvement. The Cyclones have partnered with numerous organizations to give back to the community. They are a source of pride for the state of Iowa and are a symbol of the state’s values.
The future of Iowa State Football is bright. Under the leadership of Coach Matt Campbell, the Cyclones are poised to continue their success on and off the field. They have a talented team, a strong coaching staff, and a passionate fan base. Iowa State is a rising star in the college football world, and they are poised to make a major impact in the years to come.
Iowa State Football 2025: A Season of Promise
Iowa State football is on the rise, and the 2025 season is shaping up to be a special one. The Cyclones return a talented roster led by quarterback Hunter Dekkers and running back Jirehl Brock, and they have added several key pieces through recruiting and the transfer portal.
Head coach Matt Campbell has Iowa State playing with confidence and swagger, and the Cyclones are poised to make a run at the Big 12 title in 2025. They have a favorable schedule, and they will be battle-tested by the time they reach the end of the season.
The Cyclones have a lot of potential in 2025, and they could be a dark horse to make the College Football Playoff. They have the talent, the coaching, and the experience to make a run at a national championship.
People Also Ask About Iowa State Football 2025
What is the Iowa State football schedule in 2025?
The Iowa State football schedule in 2025 has not yet been released.
Who is the head coach of Iowa State football?
Matt Campbell is the head coach of Iowa State football.
Who is the starting quarterback for Iowa State football in 2025?
Hunter Dekkers is the starting quarterback for Iowa State football in 2025.
