SURPRISE: ISU's Schedule Is EASY, Cyclones Will SHOCK Big 12 If Jimmy Rogers Gets Rolling Early

Iowa State Cyclones face a make-or-break season as skepticism mounts—could first-year head coach Jimmy Rogers silence doubters and shock the Big 12? Nick Marovets spotlights a slate loaded with marquee matchups against Iowa, BYU, Arizona, Oklahoma State, and Utah, dissecting which showdowns will truly define the Cyclones’ path. With Jalen Raynor and an influx of transfers, questions loom about returning production, offensive potential, and how quickly a rebuilt squad can gel. Key talking points include which games could swing expectations, the pivotal CyHawk rivalry, and whether Iowa State can clinch bowl eligibility against UCF. Nick Marovets delivers ceiling vs. floor predictions, candid takes on Utah and Kansas State, and debate on just how far the Cyclones could go—will Iowa State become the Big 12’s surprise contender, or is a rebuilding year in store?