Head Coach: Matt Campbell, 8th year: 46-42, 12th year overall: 81-57
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Iowa State Cyclones Football Preview 2023
The Iowa State Cyclones are coming off a disappointing 4-8 season in 2022, but there is reason for optimism heading into 2023. The Cyclones return a number of key players on both offense and defense, including quarterback Hunter Dekkers, running back Jirehl Brock, and wide receiver Tarique Milton.
Dekkers is entering his third season as the Cyclones' starting quarterback. He threw for 2,176 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2022, but he also threw 14 interceptions. Dekkers will need to cut down on his turnovers if the Cyclones are to have a successful season.
Brock is one of the most explosive running backs in the Big 12. He rushed for 1,026 yards and eight touchdowns in 2022. Brock will need to stay healthy in 2023 if the Cyclones are to have a balanced offense.
Milton is a big-play receiver who can stretch the field. He caught 48 passes for 774 yards and five touchdowns in 2022. Milton will need to stay healthy and be productive in 2023 if the Cyclones are to have a high-powered offense.
The Cyclones' defense is led by linebacker Mike Rose. Rose is a two-time All-Big 12 selection who is one of the best linebackers in the country. Rose will need to be a difference-maker for the Cyclones in 2023.
The Cyclones' schedule is challenging in 2023. They will face Oklahoma, Texas, and Baylor in Big 12 play. The Cyclones will also face BYU and Cincinnati, two teams that are expected to be ranked in the top 25.
Despite a challenging schedule, I believe the Cyclones have the potential to win six or seven games in 2023. The Cyclones have a talented roster and a good coaching staff. If Dekkers can cut down on his turnovers and the Cyclones can stay healthy, they could be a surprise team in the Big 12.
Key Players
- Hunter Dekkers, QB
- Jirehl Brock, RB
- Tarique Milton, WR
- Mike Rose, LB
- Will McDonald IV, DE
- Isheem Young, CB
2022 Statistics
- Overall record: 4-8
- Big 12 record: 3-6
- Scoring offense: 24.3 points per game
- Scoring defense: 28.4 points per game
- Total offense: 4,040 yards
- Total defense: 4,304 yards
Prediction
I predict the Cyclones will win 6-7 games in 2023. The Cyclones have a talented roster and a good coaching staff. If Dekkers can cut down on his turnovers and the Cyclones can stay healthy, they could be a surprise team in the Big 12.