FRISCO, Texas – Iowa State enjoyed a remarkable season in 2024, achieving a record 11 wins. The Cyclones reached the Big 12 Championship Game for the first time and triumphed over Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. However, internally, the achievement feels incomplete.

“There’s a lot of guys coming back to a team that feels like they underaccomplished,” offensive lineman Tyler Miller remarked. “Yes, it’s a remarkable season in Iowa State’s history, but ultimately, our objective is to secure victory in December’s Big 12 championship, which eluded us.”

The term “great season” seems to underestimate the reality. Under coach Matt Campbell, the program is experiencing unprecedented success. The 11-2 record marks the seventh winning season in eight years, matching what was accomplished over the prior 35 years of Iowa State football before Campbell’s arrival.

But for the 113th consecutive year, a conference championship remains elusive, having not won since 1912.

To seize another chance, Iowa State’s roster made a unique choice. According to Campbell, over 20 players opted for reduced financial compensation to extend their eligibility. Despite having a roster capable of competing for a conference title, Iowa State could not cover the full $20.5 million revenue share in their initial season (most programs contribute around $13 million into football).

“We are not fully there yet,” noted Campbell. “We’re working in that direction and hopefully will arrive there as we continue this process. Yet, regarding the total funds allocated for this year, we won’t reach that level.”

Consequently, Iowa State faces financial disadvantages. Interest grew from other schools towards key players, including quarterback Rocco Becht, tight end Gabe Burkle, and defensive back Jeremiah Cooper. All opted to stay and pursue improvement towards a championship run.

14 starters are set to return for Iowa State as they approach the influential 2025 season. The Cyclones effectively navigated the transfer portal, securing the addition of receivers Chase Sowell and Xavier Townsend. The majority of the roster results from internal development.

“I believe this group returned with strong intentions, recognizing our achievements from last year and where improvements are necessary,” Campbell emphasized. “They were able to go back to work, acknowledging our shortcomings.”

When Campbell began his tenure as head coach at Toledo at the young age of 31, he inscribed three key words on paper: Recruit, retain, develop.

Fourteen years on, those words continue to rest on his desk in Ames, Iowa. While college football has evolved, Campbell’s principles endure. At Iowa State, he sees yet another potential opportunity to excel on the grandest stage of the sport.

“We would literally be the first team ever to do so, the only team in Iowa State’s history to claim a Big 12 championship,” Becht remarked. “This weighs heavily on our minds; we desire it, as those expectations inspire us to reach that level.”