The Iowa State Cyclones’ decisive victory over Arizona presents an intriguing duality for the program: a clear sign of progress alongside looming concerns. On the promising side, the offense demonstrated a newfound efficiency and dynamism, perfectly showcased by quarterback Rocco Becht’s three rushing touchdowns and effective passing, which included a highlight 146-yard receiving night for Chase Sowell. This offensive firepower, combined with a defense that generated key turnovers—like a crucial interception—proves the Cyclones possess the tough, complementary football necessary to compete atop the newly expanded Big 12.

However, the win is tempered by significant injury concerns. Entering the contest, Iowa State’s depth was already challenged, particularly with reports of the team being without key contributors, including the top two kickers. While the team adjusted masterfully in this game, accumulating injuries at critical positions—especially if they impact the defensive line or skill players—threatens the team’s continuity and endurance during the rigorous conference schedule ahead. Ultimately, the victory confirms Iowa State’s high ceiling, but the sustained success of the promising offense and rugged defense now depends on its ability to withstand the inevitable attrition of a long season.

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The Game Cap
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DoorDash
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Mazda
It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.
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Iowa State’s pursuit of success across its major programs has frequently been undermined by ill-timed injuries, a pattern that unfortunately manifested during the previous season and highlights the inherent fragility of competitive depth. Last year, the men's basketball team saw its potential March Madness run severely hampered when key guard Keshon Gilbert was ruled out for the NCAA tournament with a lingering groin injury, an issue that also affected Tamin Lipsey and contributed to an early exit after losing vital backcourt production in the Big 12 tournament. Similarly, the football team faced continuous attrition throughout the year, challenging depth and continuity at crucial positions.

This historical vulnerability underscores the high stakes of player health in the current season. Assuming the football team will be without critical contributors, such as the top two kickers, Kyle Konrardy and Jace Gilbert, for the upcoming matchup against Arizona, the challenge intensifies dramatically. Losing a weapon like Konrardy, who provides long-range scoring ability, forces Coach Campbell to alter his offensive game plan—likely leading to more aggressive fourth-down decisions in scoring range. Combined with the potential absence of defensive line depth, this puts undue pressure on the remaining healthy starters. Ultimately, the cyclical nature of injury management suggests that any significant loss of a key Cyclone, regardless of the opponent, makes an already tough matchup against an improving Arizona squad considerably more difficult.

5-Hour ENERGY
Enough with boring, flavorless caffeine, it’s time to give your caffeine a flavor upgrade with 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots. Get the favorites you love or be bold and try something new in-store and online at https://www.5hourENERGY.com or Amazon today.

Square
To learn more, go support your favorite neighborhood spot and see what Square has been up to in your neck of the woods. And then if you have extra time, check out https://square.com/go/lockedoncollege

The Game Cap
Grab your team’s classic bar or retro circle designed hat and use code LOCKEDON for an exclusive discount. Head to Because legends wear The Game. Head to https://thegamecaps.com

DoorDash
With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

Mazda
It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.
Mazda. Move and Be Moved.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Entering Big 12 play, Iowa State faces a significant challenge in Arizona, a team with a deceptive record. While the Wildcats finished last season 4-8, their early-season play in 2024 has been much improved. However, their 3-0 record is misleading, as demonstrated by their narrow loss to Kansas State. A closer look at that game reveals a contest the Wildcats could have, and perhaps should have, won, showcasing their vulnerability despite a tough performance. This is particularly relevant for Iowa State, which decisively defeated Kansas State in a late-season matchup last year, proving their capability against a formidable opponent.

Iowa State's early schedule has been a crucible, pitting them against a more rigorous lineup of opponents. This tough slate has forced the Cyclones to make critical adjustments and refine their game plan, providing them with a clearer understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. In contrast, Arizona's schedule, while resulting in wins, may not have fully prepared them for the strategic and physical intensity of a Big 12 conference opener. Iowa State’s experience in high-stakes games and its recent success against a common opponent give the Cyclones a distinct advantage in both confidence and preparation. The Cyclones have already been through the fire, and that experience will be crucial as they begin their conference slate.

5-Hour ENERGY
Enough with boring, flavorless caffeine, it’s time to give your caffeine a flavor upgrade with 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots. Get the favorites you love or be bold and try something new in-store and online at https://www.5hourENERGY.com or Amazon today.

Square
To learn more, go support your favorite neighborhood spot and see what Square has been up to in your neck of the woods. And then if you have extra time, check out https://square.com/go/lockedoncollege

The Game Cap
Grab your team’s classic bar or retro circle designed hat and use code LOCKEDON for an exclusive discount. Head to Because legends wear The Game. Head to https://thegamecaps.com

DoorDash
With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

Mazda
It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.
Mazda. Move and Be Moved.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)