Why Isaac Terrell Can Be Iowa State Football's Biggest Difference Maker Against Iowa

Isaac Terrell is taking part in his first Cy-Hawk Rivalry Game and can be a difference maker.

Iowa State defensive end Isaac Terrell (88) sacks Southeast Missouri quarterback Braylen Ragland (7) during the second quarter in the week one NCAA football at Jack Trice Stadium on Sept. 5, 2026, in Ames, Iowa. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

In the Iowa State Cyclones' season opener against the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks, many weren’t sure who the top player on the squad would be. With an abundance of departures over the offseason, plenty of new faces joined the roster, and no one knew who would break out.

But the main man who did it all was Isaac Terrell, who had a dominant Week 1 showing. He had three sacks, hitting the quarterback all night and causing trouble in the backfield as a whole. His dominance, swagger, and leadership were exactly what Iowa State needed in game one of the Jimmy Rogers era.

Terrell had nearly half the total number of sacks that he had the season prior with the Washington State Cougars, where he had a dominant year. Being able to start so hot is perfect for his confidence and motor.

So, going into Week 2, who is going to be the player the Cyclones need to do well? Of course, it’s Terrell.

Isaac Terrell is player to watch against Iowa

Defensive end Isaac Terrell stands for a photo during Iowa State Football media day at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Wednesday, August 19, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Terrell is the veteran guy, the man who played in the system of the head coach and defensive coordinator the year prior, the player who is a great leader, and one who is blossoming at the perfect time, early in the season. When no one else can show up, Terrell is the one who can, and therefore he’s the perfect man to help Iowa State.

And think about the momentum. The Cyclones' identity as a team is the defensive line, especially on the exterior, where names like Caden Crawford and Malaki Ta’ase reside. It’s the most feared room on the squad, and potentially one of the best in the entire Big 12 Conference. Going into Iowa City, IA, after a great Week 1 performance should only boost their confidence to have another big night.

In addition, Iowa State’s run defense is what helped them succeed in their first game, as they allowed just 67 yards on the ground. But it’s not going to be easy against the Hawkeyes, who have Kamari Moulton, one of the best running backs in the entire country. If the Cyclones can stop Moulton, they have a great chance to win the game, and a lot of that pressure in the backfield will need to come from Terrell.

It’s a big game for Iowa State, meaning it’s time for the star players to show up, and what better time for a team captain and veteran leader like Terrell to prove himself to the world?