Iowa State Cyclones Land Strong Ranking In Preseason Coaches Poll

With the 2025 college football season around the corner, the Iowa State Cyclones and head coach Matt Campbell continue to receive high praise ahead of the program's week zero contest.

On Monday, USA Today released the official top-25 Preseason Coaches Poll ahead of the 2025 season, with Campbell and the Cyclones claiming the No. 22 spot.

NEW 🚨 The Preseason Coaches Poll just dropped!

Who should be higher? pic.twitter.com/klBAic09So
— CBS Sports College Football 🏈 (@CBSSportsCFB) August 4, 2025

Iowa State is coming off an impressive 2025 season, as the program finished the year with an 11-3 record and a 7-2 conference record. Their dominant run included wins in four of the last fives games, thanks to a huge bowl game victory over the Miami Hurricanes, 42-41.

This season, however, will be completely different on the offensive side of the ball due to star receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel off to the NFL. The duo combined for over 2,300 yards through the air last season, which means veteran quarterback Rocco Becht must rely on a younger supporting cast in 2025.

Luckily, the Cyclones' defense did not face any significant losses this offseason. Senior defensive lineman Domonique Orange returns for his final collegiate season, making him a key piece in the front seven for Campbell. In addition to Orange, both defensive backs Jeremiah Cooper and Jontez Williams will provide much-needed stability in the program's secondary unit.

The Cyclones will kick off the 2025 season in Dublin, Ireland on Aug. 23 against fellow Big 12 Conference member, the Kansas State Wildcats. Iowa State was able to edge out the Wildcats last season in a thrilling 29-21 victory.

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