Cyclones Face Roster Shake-Up After Campbell Departure, But Women's Hoops Deliver a Weekend to Remember
It’s officially a new era in Ames, and with it comes the expected turbulence. The departure of longtime head coach Matt Campbell has cracked open the transfer portal floodgates, and Iowa State is feeling the full force of the modern college football landscape.
The Cyclones saw several key players announce their intentions to transfer over the weekend, including quarterback Rocco Becht, defensive back Jeremiah Cooper, wide receiver Khijohnn Cummings-Coleman, and linebacker Jontez Williams. These aren’t just depth pieces-they’re core contributors, and their exits leave some significant holes for new head coach Jimmy Rogers to fill.
Let’s be clear: no coach taking over a Power Five program in 2025 is going to retain every starter, especially after a leadership change. That’s just the reality of the transfer portal era.
What Rogers has to do now is chart a path forward-retool the roster, stabilize the locker room, and build a new identity for Iowa State football. It’s not about salvaging the Campbell era; it’s about building something new.
Quarterback Search Begins
The biggest question, naturally, is under center. With Becht moving on, the Cyclones are without their starting quarterback heading into 2026. Becht’s leadership and production won’t be easy to replace, but Rogers and his staff have options.
If Alex Manske or Connor Moberly stay in Ames, either could be in the mix. But it’s likely Iowa State will look to the portal to bring in competition-maybe even a new QB1.
The challenge? Luring an experienced Power Five starter to a program in transition isn’t easy.
More realistic targets might include career backups from bigger programs or top performers from Group of Five schools looking for a bigger stage.
The goal isn’t just to find a one-year stopgap. Ideally, Rogers finds someone who can grow with the program and offer a few years of stability. That continuity could be crucial as the Cyclones transition schemes and culture under new leadership.
Defensive Anchor Still in Play?
One name that hasn’t hit the portal yet-but could have a major impact if he stays-is linebacker Caleb Bacon. Before Campbell’s exit, Bacon was expected to return for one more season. Whether that still holds remains to be seen.
If Bacon does decide to stick around, he could be a tone-setter for the new defense. Iowa State is expected to shift from the 3-3-5 to a 4-3 base under Rogers, a move that could play right into Bacon’s strengths.
He’s a physical, downhill linebacker who could thrive in a more traditional front-and that shift could also help boost his NFL stock. The 3-3-5 may have served Iowa State well in the past, but it’s not a system that translates easily to the next level.
A strong senior season in a pro-style scheme could be just what Bacon needs.
The Portal Picture
The truth is, the Cyclones aren’t done seeing players exit. The portal window is still open, and more names will likely trickle out in the coming weeks.
That’s the nature of the beast right now in college football. Some fans will be patient with Rogers; others won’t.
But the only way forward is through.
This rebuild won’t be easy. It’s going to take time, smart recruiting, and a few key players choosing to stay and help lay the foundation.
The Cyclones may look very different in 2026, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be competitive. It just means the climb starts now.
Hilton Magic Strikes Again
While the football program sorts through its growing pains, the women’s basketball team delivered a moment that Cyclone fans won’t soon forget.
With the score tied at 76 and just five seconds left on the clock, Iowa State inbounded the ball and found Kenzie Hare in the corner. One quick release later-and bang.
Game-winner. Hilton Coliseum erupted.
That was only Hare’s second shot attempt of the game, but she was ready when her number was called. That’s what coaches mean when they preach “stay ready.” And Hare didn’t just stay ready-she delivered in one of the biggest moments of the season.
The buzzer-beater lifted No. 10 Iowa State to a 79-76 win over Kansas, pushing the Cyclones to a perfect 13-0 and giving them a victory in their Big 12 opener. It was the kind of win that builds belief-not just because of the result, but because of how it happened.
Crooks Dominates Again
Of course, the engine behind Iowa State’s success continues to be Audi Crooks. The sophomore sensation poured in 41 points on 19-of-28 shooting, once again proving she’s one of the most dominant post players in the country. She was unstoppable, finishing through contact, running the floor, and anchoring the offense.
Jada Williams added a double-double with 11 points and 10 assists, Addy Brown contributed 16 points, eight boards, and five assists of her own, and Arianna Jackson made her presence felt on the defensive end. Even on a night when the Cyclones shot just 2-for-8 from beyond the arc, they found a way to win. That’s the kind of resilience that separates good teams from great ones.
Men Stay Perfect Too
Not to be outdone, the men’s team handled business as well, rolling past Long Beach State in a 91-60 rout. The win moves them to 12-0, continuing what’s been a quietly dominant start to the season.
A Weekend of Highs and Lows
It was a weekend of contrast for Iowa State Athletics-on one end, the football program is facing a tough offseason full of uncertainty. On the other, both basketball teams are undefeated and delivering headline moments.
That’s the beauty of college sports. Even when one program hits a rough patch, another can lift the spirits of an entire fanbase. And right now, the magic inside Hilton Coliseum is doing just that.
The road ahead for Cyclone football may be bumpy, but the foundation of Iowa State pride is still strong-and it was on full display this weekend.