By : Izaiah Ortiz
(Photo/Jerome Miron-Imagn Images)
The Iowa State Cyclones are riding high after reclaiming the Cy-Hawk Trophy last weekend, but their next test takes them into unfamiliar territory. The No. 14-ranked Cyclones (3–0) head to Jonesboro on Saturday to face the Arkansas State Red Wolves (1–1) in what could serve as a pivotal tune-up before Big 12 play begins. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. CT at Centennial Bank Stadium, with national coverage on ESPN2.
Cyclones Surging Behind Rocco Becht
For the first time in years, Iowa State enters September with momentum and national attention. Their 16–13 victory over in-state rival Iowa was as gritty as it was meaningful, with sophomore quarterback Rocco Becht leading the way. Becht finished 18-of-27 for 134 yards and a touchdown, managing the game efficiently against one of the nation’s toughest defenses.
Through three games, Becht has thrown for nearly 600 yards with six touchdowns and no interceptions. His steady hand has given head coach Matt Campbell the kind of offensive balance he’s been searching for. The Cyclones are averaging more than 30 points per game while pairing that with one of the Big 12’s most disciplined defenses.
Iowa State has also leaned on a punishing running game to complement Becht’s efficiency. Their ground attack chewed up crucial yards in the Iowa win, keeping the Hawkeyes’ defense honest and controlling the tempo.
Arkansas State Looking to Prove Itself
The Red Wolves enter Saturday with a chip on their shoulder. After opening the year with a win, they were humbled by Arkansas in a 56–14 loss. While the scoreboard was lopsided, quarterback Jaylen Raynor flashed potential, and the Red Wolves showed glimpses of explosiveness that could keep this matchup interesting.
Raynor has completed over 70 percent of his passes through two games and already accounted for more than 450 yards and four touchdowns. If he can find rhythm early, Arkansas State has the firepower to test Iowa State’s secondary.
Head coach Butch Jones has emphasized discipline all week after penalties and defensive lapses hurt the Red Wolves badly against the Razorbacks. To keep pace with a top-15 opponent, Arkansas State will need to clean up mistakes and rely on its home-field energy.
Keys to the Game
Becht’s Command: Iowa State doesn’t need gaudy numbers from Rocco Becht; they need his efficiency and leadership. If he keeps the offense on schedule, the Cyclones should control the game.
Raynor’s Big-Play Ability: Arkansas State’s quarterback gives them a puncher’s chance. A few explosive plays could shift momentum in front of a fired-up Jonesboro crowd.
Discipline vs. Pressure: Iowa State’s defense thrives on forcing opponents into mistakes. If the Red Wolves can limit turnovers and penalties, they can hang around longer than expected.
What does it all mean?
For Iowa State, this game is about avoiding a letdown. After the emotional high of beating Iowa, Campbell’s team must stay focused to avoid an upset. For Arkansas State, it’s about seizing a rare spotlight moment and proving they can compete against elite competition.
If Rocco Becht continues to play with poise and the Cyclones’ defense keeps dictating games, Iowa State should leave Jonesboro unbeaten and full of confidence heading into the Big 12 grind.