The Iowa State Cyclones endured a historically challenging offseason. Veteran head coach Matt Campbell left the program, and a substantial portion of the roster followed him out the door. The vacuum left behind forced the athletic department to turn to Jimmy Rogers, formerly of the Washington State Cougars, to take over the reins.
Rogers inherits a team that was a mere two seasons ago playing in the conference championship game and finished the previous year with an 8‑4 record. The abrupt transition has sparked a wide range of expectations, from bowl‑eligible contenders to squads that might limp to a two‑win season.
Rankings That Don't Tell the Whole Story
On3’s Big 12 Power Rankings for the 2026 season currently place Iowa State at 16th, dead last in the conference. The ranking has drawn criticism from analysts who point to the Cyclones’ recent on‑field success and the relative weakness of several programs they are being compared against.
Consequently, many argue that the Cyclones belong closer to the 13th spot. Their résumé includes a strong defensive unit, a quarterback in Jaylen Raynor who has shown the ability to manage the offense effectively, and playmakers such as Cameron Pettaway and Omari Hayes who add depth to the skill positions.
The argument gains traction when examining the competition. Kansas, for instance, is grappling with a quarterback dilemma and lacks star power on either side of the ball. Cincinnati boasts a formidable offensive line but appears to have plateaued at a level below the Power Four elite. UCF, despite a capable quarterback, suffers from inconsistency and geographic isolation that hinder recruiting and travel logistics.
These factors, combined with the experience of returning veterans and the infusion of new talent under Rogers, suggest that Iowa State is far from the worst team in the Big 12. The Cyclones’ blend of defensive solidity and offensive versatility positions them to exceed the low expectations set by the current rankings.