Iowa State Football: Five breakout players to watch in 2018

Iowa State football finished with their best record since 2000. The Cyclones need to replace some big voids, look for these five players to breakout in 2018.

Coming off an 8-5 season and a Liberty Bowl victory over Memphis, the Cyclones have tons of momentum heading into 2018. Iowa State took the nation by storm after upsetting then third ranked Oklahoma with walk-on and first time starter, Kyle Kempt at quarterback.

Matt Campbell became a hot commodity for many job openings but stayed loyal to Iowa State inking a six-year contract extension. So far the Cyclones have retained their entire coaching staff besides running backs/associate head coach, Louis Ayeni who left for his alma mater Northwestern.

Offensively, the biggest loss comes at receiver for the Cyclones. Three of the top four pass-catchers graduated for the Cyclones. Slot receiver Trever Ryen, wide receiver Marchie Murdock, and Wide receiver Allen Lazard will leave big shoes to fill. The trio combined for 159 catches, 1,923 yards, and 16 touchdowns.

Defensively, the Cyclones will have two voids to fill at safety, two on the defensive line, and most importantly the void left by All-American, Joel Lanning at middle linebacker. The one year linebacker in Lanning quickly made himself into an NFL prospect and will be missed greatly on defense.

Iowa State will have key positions to fill on each side of the ball, here are five players to expect to have breakout years.