The Big 12 football landscape is buzzing with speculation about Sacramento State potentially joining the conference, and the implications are significant. Could this be a game-changer? Drake Toll and Nick Marovets dive deep into this possibility, exploring the potential benefits and challenges of adding the Hornets to the Power Five ranks. Beyond expansion, they analyze the SEC's persistent attempts to lure away top Big 12 quarterbacks like Rocco Becht and Avery Johnson. Their decisions to remain highlight the strong culture at programs like Iowa State. Speaking of the Cyclones, Drake and Nick dissect the seemingly low transfer portal rankings of both Iowa State and BYU, suggesting it reflects strategic continuity and internal development rather than a setback. The discussion around Sacramento State's potential inclusion goes beyond on-field performance. Toll and Marovets examine the appealing Sacramento media market, the growing importance of NIL funds, and Shaquille O'Neal's involvement as the basketball General Manager, adding intrigue and potential influence.

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The possibility of Iowa State University reinstating its baseball program has become a topic of increasing discussion and legislative interest. After being cut in 2001, the return of Cyclone baseball could reshape the state's collegiate sports landscape and offer new opportunities for athletes.

Several factors contribute to this potential resurgence. Firstly, there's a growing recognition of the sport's value in developing athletes and fostering community engagement. Baseball's popularity in Iowa, particularly at the high school level, suggests a strong base of potential players and fan support. The revival could provide in-state athletes a chance to compete at a high level without leaving Iowa.

What could a reinstated program look like? Iowa State would likely need to invest in facilities, coaching staff, and scholarships to compete in the Big 12 Conference. Renovating or building a new stadium would be crucial, along with recruiting top-tier talent. The program would also aim to create a strong culture, emphasizing academic success and community involvement.

The return of Iowa State baseball could have a significant economic impact on Ames, drawing fans and generating revenue for local businesses. It would also add another dimension to the university's athletic offerings, potentially increasing overall student and alumni engagement. While challenges such as funding and Title IX compliance would need to be addressed, the potential benefits of bringing back Iowa State baseball are substantial.

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Dominick Nelson's transfer to Iowa State marks an exciting addition to the men's basketball program. Coming off a season where he earned the WAC Player of the Year award at Utah Valley, Nelson brings a proven scoring ability to the Cyclones. The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 14.4 points per game, demonstrating his knack for getting to the basket and drawing fouls. This skill set fills a crucial need for Iowa State, as they look to replace the scoring output of departing guards.

Nelson's experience and offensive prowess should provide an immediate boost to the team's backcourt. His ability to attack the rim and get to the free-throw line adds a new dimension to Iowa State's offense. Coach T.J. Otzelberger has a history of developing transfer players, and Nelson fits the mold of a high-impact addition who can contribute significantly to the team's success in the competitive Big 12 conference.

Iowa State's athletic success isn't limited to the basketball court. The university also has a strong tradition of producing NFL talent. Several former Iowa State Cyclones have been drafted into the NFL, showcasing the program's ability to develop high-level football players. These athletes have gone on to compete at the highest level of professional football, further solidifying Iowa State's reputation as a breeding ground for top-tier talent in both basketball and football.

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Could TV ratings decide the College Football Playoff? This controversial idea could reshape the landscape for teams like the Florida Gators and Utah Utes. Dive into the latest buzz around conference realignment, with Utah potentially eyeing a Big Ten move. How will this impact their playoff chances? The episode also explores the growing influence of NIL deals on college sports, highlighting disparities between basketball and football. Key figures like J.T. Wistrcill and "Mountaineer Paul" weigh in on these game-changing developments.

Join the conversation as we break down the implications for Big 12 schools and beyond. Don't miss out on these insider insights and expert analysis.

The landscape of college football is in constant flux, with changes like the transfer portal and NIL reshaping the way programs operate. For the Iowa State Cyclones, head coach Matt Campbell's emphasis on building a strong program culture has become more crucial than ever.

Campbell's approach, centered on development and character, has helped Iowa State achieve unprecedented success in recent years. This "five-star culture," as some call it, prioritizes player development and team cohesion over simply acquiring high-profile recruits. In an era where players have more freedom to move between schools, this culture fosters loyalty and commitment, which is essential for sustained success.

The challenge for Iowa State is to maintain this culture amidst the changing landscape. The allure of quick success through the transfer portal and lucrative NIL deals could tempt programs to abandon their long-term development strategies. However, Campbell's commitment to his established principles could be what sets Iowa State apart.

This focus on culture could allow Iowa State to not only remain competitive but also thrive. In a world where many programs are chasing short-term gains, the Cyclones' emphasis on stability and development could become a significant advantage.

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The departure of the Helton twins left a notable void in Iowa State's offensive line, raising concerns about depth and experience. However, the addition of Derek Jensen from Wisconsin offers a promising solution and a positive outlook for the unit's future. Jensen, a highly-rated recruit out of high school, brings size, potential, and significant upside to the Cyclones.

His decision to transfer to Iowa State signals a strategic move by the coaching staff to address the offensive line needs proactively. Jensen's experience in a Big Ten program, even in a redshirt role, provides him with a foundation of collegiate-level training and preparation. His physical attributes, combined with his remaining eligibility, make him a valuable asset.

This acquisition is more than just replacing lost talent; it's about potentially upgrading the line's overall capabilities. Jensen's addition, along with other transfer additions, indicates a clear emphasis on bolstering the offensive line with both immediate contributors and long-term prospects. This approach should provide stability and competition, fostering a more robust and effective unit.

In conclusion, while the Helton twins' departure was a setback, the addition of Derek Jensen is a strong indication that the Iowa State coaching staff is committed to maintaining a high level of play on the offensive line. Jensen's talent and potential, combined with the team's recruiting strategy, should help ensure the Cyclones' offensive line remains a strength.

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The potential incorporation of TV ratings into the College Football Playoff (CFP) selection process has sparked debate about the future of college football. While no official decision has been made, the proposal raises concerns about prioritizing viewership over competitive merit.

Currently, the CFP selection committee considers factors like on-field performance, strength of schedule, and conference championships. Adding TV ratings introduces a new element that could significantly advantage teams and conferences with larger fan bases. Conferences like the SEC and Big Ten, which consistently draw higher viewership, would likely benefit, potentially receiving more automatic bids or higher rankings.

For a program like Iowa State, this shift could present challenges. While the Cyclones have shown they can compete with top teams, their media market and overall viewership numbers may not rival those of traditional powerhouses. In a system that weighs TV ratings heavily, Iowa State might find it more difficult to secure a playoff spot, even with a strong record.

This proposal raises concerns about fairness and equity within college football. It could create a system where the rich get richer, further widening the gap between major programs and emerging contenders. While TV ratings are undoubtedly important for the financial health of college football, prioritizing them in CFP selection could undermine the integrity of the sport and diminish the importance of on-field achievements.

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