Way-too-early Top 25 projections for 2021 college football season

Iowa State dodged a huge bullet when head coach Matt Campbell sent away NFL suitors and doubled down on his commitment in Ames. The Cyclones find themselves in a strong position to challenge for the Big 12 title once again, and could potentially win their first league crown since 1912. The combination of a big win over Oregon in the Fiesta Bowl and a massive haul of returning talent will put the Cyclones in the top 10 of the preseason AP Top 25 for the first time in school history.

Joining elite running back Breece Hall in Ames next season is Brock Purdy, who elected to take advantage of the NCAA’s blanket extra year of eligibility for players this season. The offense also gets back tight ends Chase Allen and Charlie Kolar, further fortifying Iowa State’s chances of contending for the Big 12 title. On defense, Iowa State also boasts the return of Big 12 defensive player of the year Mike Rose at linebacker.

Back on the schedule in 2021 is El Assico against Iowa, along with non-conference games against UNLV and FCS Northern Iowa. Oklahoma State, TCU, and Texas all have to come to Jack Trice Stadium. Iowa State does have to play Oklahoma on the road in the regular season, which will likely be the toughest test of the year and a potential preview of the Big 12 championship game.