One MAJOR Flaw Is Holding Iowa State Back From a Big 12 Title, Matt Campbell and Cyclones Are Close

Iowa State is in a prime position to compete for a Big 12 title and make a push for the College Football Playoff, a remarkable feat for a program that has seen unprecedented success under head coach Matt Campbell. Led by a veteran quarterback in Rocco Becht, the Cyclones have a strong foundation built on a sound running game and a stout, disciplined defense. Becht has shown he can be a top-tier signal-caller, and the running back room, featuring players like Carson Hansen, provides a consistent threat. On defense, the team is anchored by a talented secondary with standouts like Jeremiah Cooper and Jontez Williams, who have proven to be playmakers. However, if Iowa State wants to ascend from a good team to a great one, it must address a few areas of concern. The defensive line, while effective, lacks a consistent pass rush. The team ranked near the bottom of the FBS in sacks last season, a weakness that could be exploited by elite offenses. Similarly, the wide receiver corps, which lost key contributors to the NFL, needs new playmakers to emerge. While transfers like Chase Sowell and Xavier Townsend are promising, they have to consistently produce to match the high-level output of their predecessors. If these areas can improve, the Cyclones have the talent and coaching to not only win the Big 12 but also contend on the national stage.