Iowa State Football Faces Major Rebuild Under New Coach Jimmy Rogers
Iowa State enters a new era in 2026, and the transition has been anything but smooth. After Matt Campbell left to become the head coach at Penn State, the Cyclones lost not only their leader but also many of their top players, including quarterback Rocco Becht, who followed Campbell to Happy Valley. Replacing Campbell is Jimmy Rogers, a coach who helped lead Washington State to a 6-6 record last season after winning an FCS national championship at South Dakota State in 2023.
The Cyclones now face a steep climb in a competitive Big 12 conference. With only 21 returning scholarship players from last season, the team is relying heavily on transfers and fresh talent. This sets up a critical regular-season finale against in-state rival Kansas State on November 28 at Jack Trice Stadium, a game that could define Rogers' first year in Ames.
What Happened to Iowa State's Roster?
The transfer portal has reshaped college football, and Iowa State felt the impact more than most. Campbell's departure triggered an exodus of talent, leaving the Cyclones with a roster that is largely new. Only two projected starters on offense were on the team last season: wide receiver Dominic Overby and right tackle Garrett Rutledge. Overby had seven catches for 87 yards, while Rutledge played primarily on special teams.
To fill the gaps, Rogers brought in quarterback Jaylen Raynor from Arkansas State. Raynor has three seasons of starting experience, throwing for 8,694 yards, 52 touchdowns, and 28 interceptions. He faced the Cyclones last season and nearly led an upset with 305 total yards and one touchdown. Other key additions include wide receiver Evan Boyd, who transferred from Michigan State after a promising freshman year at Central Michigan where he had 21 catches for 302 yards and two touchdowns before a collarbone injury ended his 2024 season.
How Will the Defense Look Under a New Scheme?
Rogers brought in defensive coordinator Jesse Bobbit to overhaul the defense. The Cyclones have traditionally run a 3-3-5 scheme, but Bobbit is switching to a 4-2-5. This change could take time to implement, but there is talent to work with.
Defensive end Isaac Terrell followed Rogers from Washington State and is coming off a season with 28 tackles and seven sacks. He will anchor a defensive line that includes Caden Crawford, Zaimir Hawk, and Bryson Lamb. The linebackers could be a strength, led by Austin Peay transfer Montreze Smith Jr., who had 73 tackles and four sacks last season. Sullivan Schlimgen, another Washington State transfer, adds experience with 49 tackles as a freshman and familiarity with Bobbit's system.
What Does the Schedule Look Like?
The Cyclones open with a tough non-conference game at in-state rival Iowa in Week 2. That matchup is always a low-scoring, physical battle, and it will be a major test for such an inexperienced team early in the season. The Big 12 schedule offers some relief, as Iowa State avoids Texas Tech and Houston this year. However, challenging road games at BYU and Arizona in October could determine the trajectory of the season.
Can the Cyclones Compete in the Big 12?
Rogers has a track record of building contenders. He won an FCS national championship at South Dakota State in 2023 and improved Washington State to 6-6 last season. But asking the Cyclones to contend for a Big 12 title in year one is a major ask. For Iowa State fans, a realistic goal would be to play meaningful games in November with a chance to earn a bowl berth.
The regular-season finale against Kansas State on November 28 will be a pivotal moment. The series is historically competitive, with Iowa State leading 55-50-4. The Cyclones have won the last three meetings, all by eight points or less, including a thrilling 24-21 victory in Ireland last season. This game could set the tone for the future of the program under Rogers.
Game Information
- Date: Saturday, November 28
- Time: TBD
- TV: TBD
- Location: Jack Trice Stadium, Ames, Iowa
- Series History: Iowa State leads, 55-50-4
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Matt Campbell leave Iowa State?
Matt Campbell left Iowa State to become the head coach at Penn State, a move that also prompted several top players, including quarterback Rocco Becht, to transfer to Happy Valley.
Who is Jimmy Rogers?
Jimmy Rogers is the new head coach at Iowa State. He previously led Washington State to a 6-6 record and won an FCS national championship at South Dakota State in 2023.
What is the biggest challenge for Iowa State in 2026?
The biggest challenge is roster turnover. With only 21 returning scholarship players, the Cyclones are relying heavily on transfers and new talent to compete in the Big 12.