Cyclones in USA Today’s first 2018 Top 25

Oct 7, 2017; Norman, OK, USA; Iowa State Cyclones head coach Matt Campbell speaks to the media after defeating the Oklahoma Sooners at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa State shocked the college football world in 2017, but days of flying under the radar may be coming to an end. The Cyclones are ranked No. 24 in USA Today‘s initial 2018 Top 25 released Tuesday morning.

“This is the next step for Matt Campbell and the Cyclones,” Paul Meyerberg wrote. “After breaking through in a big way this past fall, Campbell has Iowa State destined to become an even bigger thorn in the sides of the established programs in the Big 12. The way Campbell is building ISU is through a culture, and every passing season finds that foundation taking an even more solid hold.”

Iowa State is one of five Big 12 teams featured in Meyerberg’s poll. The Cyclones nearly completed the 2017 season within the polls after receiving 36 points in the final Associated Press Poll and finishing third in the receiving votes category.

There may be eight months before college football Saturday is back, but Iowa State is already pushing its way into the national conversation for 2018.

Jared Stansbury

View articles by Jared Stansbury subscriber

Jared a native of Clarinda, Iowa, started as the Cyclone Fanatic intern in August 2013, primarily working as a videographer until starting on the women’s basketball beat prior to the 2014-15 season. Upon earning his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Iowa State in May 2016, Jared was hired as the site’s full-time staff writer, taking over as the primary day-to-day reporter on football and men’s basketball. He was elevated to the position of managing editor in January 2020. He is a regular contributor on 1460 KXNO in Des Moines and makes regular guest appearances on radio stations across the Midwest. Jared resides in Ankeny with his four-year-old puggle, Lolo.

Follow @@JaredStansbury