Five questions with Bret Meyer: 2009 review

The 2009 Iowa State football season is behind us. It is time to get a season review from former Cyclone quarterback Bret Meyer. Here’s is another installment of Meyer’s “five questions” column here on CycloneFanatic.com, looking back at the season and just peaking ahead to 2010.

Iowa State finished 7-6 with an Insight Bowl championship. Did they exceed your expectations coming into the year?

BM: Not at all. Coming into the season, I thought we had a chance to be in every game on the schedule. With the exception of the games against Iowa and Oklahoma State, that held true. What did you see out of Iowa State in year one under Paul Rhoads that gives you hope that this program is on the rise for the long haul?

BM: Under Coach Rhoads, we were a much more disciplined team than the previous two years. You saw far less costly penalties and blown assignments. In addition, the commitment to the run game was key to our success.

There’s been some talk of a possible quarterback controversy heading into spring ball. Do you buy into that at all or is this Austen Arnaud’s job to lose?

BM: Austen had a good year in 2008, the second year in coach McFarland’s offense. People don’t understand how tough it is to learn a new system, let alone 3 in 4 years. Next year will be Austen’s second in coach Herman’s system. He will have big year. Austen will be the starter in 2010.

Iowa State’s schedule gets tougher in 2010. I know it is only January, but what are your expectations for next season?

BM: Same as they were coming into 2009. Compete for a Big 12 North title and bowl victory. Regardless of the schedule, your goals never change. I don’t see coach Rhoads changing his tune anytime soon.

If you had to name them right now, what are Iowa State’s strengths and weaknesses heading into 2010?

BM: A strength will be the offense, specifically the running game. Replacing all three of our starting linebackers will be tough, but we have good, young talent waiting for their chance to contribute.