The Iowa State Cyclones’ football season has devolved from a promising 5-0 start, which saw the team ranked in the top 15, into a severe crisis of confidence following their fourth consecutive loss, a 24-19 defeat at home to Arizona State. This latest setback, perhaps the most jarring of the four, signals a deep-seated malfunction within the Cyclone building. The team entered the game as a favorite against an injury-riddled Sun Devils squad missing its starting quarterback, yet Iowa State failed to capitalize. Instead, the Cyclones allowed ASU quarterback Jeff Sims to run for a staggering 229 yards, a shocking failure for a program that prides itself on stout run defense.

The core problem is the cyclical breakdown in execution at critical moments. The offense, led by quarterback Rocco Becht, has grown inconsistent, failing to convert scoring opportunities and move the ball effectively through the air when needed. Simultaneously, the defense has proven vulnerable to dual-threat quarterbacks and momentum-shifting plays, contributing to the team’s inability to finish games. This combination of offensive stagnation and defensive vulnerability has crushed the team’s Big 12 title aspirations and now places their bowl eligibility (at 5-4) in precarious doubt. For a program built on stability under Coach Matt Campbell, the sudden and seemingly inexplicable decline requires an immediate, honest, and aggressive internal fix before the season spirals completely out of control.

DoorDash
With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

SupplyHouse
Join the free TradeMaster program today and score serious perks like priority shipping, lower prices, and a dedicated support line. Visit SupplyHouse.com to sign up for free and use promo code SHCOLLEGE5 for 5% off your first order.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This weekend's CFB Week 10 clash between the Iowa State Cyclones and the Arizona State Sun Devils is far more than a mid-season college football contest; it's a volatile Big 12 Championship rematch. Though both programs, currently sitting at 5-3, are likely outside the College Football Playoff picture and the immediate Big 12 standings race, the historical bad blood and high stakes for bowl eligibility make this a massive game. Last year’s title bout, which saw the Sun Devils claim the trophy, ensures the atmosphere at Jack Trice Stadium will be electric, providing must-watch NCAA football content for fans and YouTube highlight creators. The central storyline is navigating significant injury news. Iowa State is fighting through deep secondary woes and running back rotation issues, while Arizona State’s offense is reeling from the loss of starting quarterback Sam Leavitt and the questionable status of top wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, forcing veteran Jeff Sims into the starting role. This defensive and offensive attrition changes the entire game day preview and prediction landscape. Look for a hard-fought, smashmouth football game characterized by strong defensive play. The key to victory will be who manages the debilitating injury crisis better. Despite falling short of preseason expectations, this Big 12 matchup is crucial for 2025 recruiting momentum and provides a critical test of character for both head coaches

Peloton
Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

DoorDash
With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

Mazda
It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.
Mazda. Move and Be Moved.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Could the Big 12 end up having three different schools in the expanded 12-team college football playoff? The BYU Cougars, Texas Tech Red Raiders and Houston Cougars all have a shot. What do we make of the Utah Utes being handed College Gameday this weekend ahead of their matchup with the Cincinnati Bearcats? Is that a big win for the Big 12?

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNQsWmyf0LCFUKr01QZ2LQ

Locked On College Football Podcast

https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-college-football/

Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege

Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/smclaughlinCFB

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LockedOn_CFB

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Peloton

Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

DoorDash

With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

Mazda

It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.

Mazda. Move and Be Moved.

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

#CollegeFootball

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Iowa State Cyclones' 5-3 start is a testament to resilience, but it also reflects the heavy toll taken by defensive injuries this season. Under Defensive Coordinator Jon Heacock, the unit is typically the rock of Matt Campbell’s program, yet its depth has been systematically shredded by long-term losses. This attrition has been particularly acute in the defensive backfield, which recently saw cornerbacks Jeremiah Cooper and Jontez Williams, both key playmakers, ruled out for the year with severe knee injuries.

The news that yet another defensive player, corner Khijohnn Cummings-Coleman, is now out for the remainder of the season, only compounds the crisis. This third major loss in the secondary forces younger, less experienced players like Tre Bell and Quentin Taylor Jr. into full-time roles, leaving defensive coaches scrambling to adjust their complex schemes with limited personnel. While the defense has battled valiantly—often still finding ways to limit opponents—the cumulative fatigue and reduction in talent depth have led to critical breakdowns in key moments, contributing directly to the team's three losses.

The question facing the team now is simple but daunting: What is the contingency plan? With the most vital position groups thinned out, Campbell must rely heavily on coaching adjustments and rapid development from backups. The Cyclones are facing the reality that their path to a strong finish will not be paved by star power, but by the grit of their remaining rotation players.

Peloton
Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

DoorDash
With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

Mazda
It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.
Mazda. Move and Be Moved.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Iowa State football is currently gripped by a painful defensive paradox: a unit that appears incapable of stopping opponents, regardless of its strategy. The core of this dilemma lies in the high rate of points and yardage conceded, particularly in recent games where the secondary has been hampered by injuries. Whether defensive coordinator Jon Heacock chooses to rely on his complex, coverage-first 3-3-5 scheme, or opts to dial up more aggressive blitz packages to generate pressure, opposing quarterbacks and offenses often find their rhythm. This failure to disrupt or contain consistently has resulted in a defense that gives up explosive plays and crucial third-down conversions, failing to provide the offense with the necessary momentum.

The true problem emerges when the young, developing Iowa State offense cannot keep pace with the resulting scoring outputs. Quarterback mistakes, like a recent spate of turnovers, are magnified when the defense allows 30-plus points, turning what should be tight contests into multi-score losses. The coaching staff faces an agonizing choice: simplify the scheme to reduce mental errors, or continue to pressure and gamble, hoping to force game-changing turnovers. Until the Cyclones can consistently execute stops—either through successful pressure or sound coverage—this defensive vulnerability will remain the troubling anchor holding the entire team back.

Peloton
Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

DoorDash
With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

Mazda
It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.
Mazda. Move and Be Moved.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The unexpected firing of a high-profile coach like Brian Kelly at LSU immediately resets the college football hiring landscape. This move, driven by the SEC's insatiable appetite for national championships and unlimited resources, acts as the first domino. While the LSU vacancy itself may attract numerous top candidates, the real danger for programs like Iowa State lies in the cascading effect the carousel creates. A coach leaving for Baton Rouge often opens up another high-level job (e.g., at an ACC or Big Ten school) that offers significantly more investment and a clearer path to the expanded College Football Playoff than a Big 12 program historically bound by developmental limitations.

This pressure converges dangerously with Matt Campbell’s current situation in Ames. Despite his remarkable tenure building the Cyclones into a consistent contender, three consecutive losses—including a disappointing home defeat—can erode job security and fan patience, even for a respected figure. Campbell has already achieved the ceiling at Iowa State; the program's lack of blue-chip recruiting talent and the inability to consistently compete with NIL powerhouses make a national title run virtually impossible. For a coach known for his ambition, the opening of any highly-resourced job created by the initial Kelly firing becomes an irresistible exit strategy, allowing him to pursue his ultimate goal elsewhere.

Peloton
Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

DoorDash
With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

Mazda
It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.
Mazda. Move and Be Moved.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The 41-27 defeat of the Iowa State Cyclones by the undefeated BYU Cougars was not just a loss; it was a devastating narrative of self-destruction that likely ended the team's Big 12 Championship aspirations. For a quarter and a half, Iowa State played with the confidence of a true contender, building a commanding 24-10 lead. The offense was clicking, the defense was stifling, and the home crowd was electric. However, what followed was perhaps the most rapid and comprehensive in-game collapse the program has witnessed, turning a hopeful upset into a brutal reality. The momentum began to disintegrate just before halftime, but the third quarter delivered the fatal blows. Critical errors, including a momentum-killing muffed punt recovery by BYU, swung the field position and completely revitalized the Cougars. The collapse was finalized when quarterback Rocco Becht threw a back-breaking pick-six in the fourth quarter, turning a close contest into a sudden 41-27 rout. The 31-3 run by BYU in the second half demonstrated an inability to weather adversity. With this loss, Iowa State falls significantly in the Big 12 standings, meaning the clear path to the championship game in Arlington is officially closed. The Cyclones must now regroup, accepting that their goal has shifted from winning the title to simply salvaging a successful season.

Quo
See why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE.

Peloton
Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

DoorDash
With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

Mazda
It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.
Mazda. Move and Be Moved.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarch.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Iowa State Cyclones face a precarious matchup against BYU, where their extensive injury situation presents a critical vulnerability. The most immediate concern is the defense, with star defensive tackle Domonique Orange listed as doubtful and the secondary already decimated by season-ending injuries. This defensive strain is compounded by the previous absence of reliable kicker Kyle Konrardy, which forced a detrimental offensive shift. Without Konrardy's field goal range security, the Cyclones were compelled to abandon easy scoring opportunities, opting instead for high-risk fourth-down conversions that often failed. This aggressive, touchdown-or-bust mentality is unsustainable, turning potential points into frustrating turnovers and directly contributing to past losses.

However, the potential return of Konrardy is the Cyclones' major reason for hope and the key to strategic recovery. His availability—trending up for the game—significantly alters the offensive calculus. Konrardy's proven ability, including a 54-yard game-winner earlier in the season, instantly makes the 30-yard line a guaranteed scoring zone. This security allows Offensive Coordinator Taylor Mouser to play with appropriate risk tolerance, protecting valuable offensive momentum and ensuring that drives which stall still result in points. In what is expected to be a physical, tightly contested Big 12 contest, getting three points instead of zero on a stalled drive will be the difference between a morale-boosting victory and a damaging defeat.

Quo
See why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE.

Peloton
Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

DoorDash
With DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.

Mazda
It’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle.
Mazda. Move and Be Moved.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarch.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)