Cyclones slated at No. 22 in second CFP rankings

Nov 3, 2018; Lawrence, KS, USA; Iowa State Cyclones running back David Montgomery (32) is tackled by Kansas Jayhawks defensive lineman KeyShaun Simmons (98) in the first half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa State has jumped up two spots to No. 22 in this week’s College Football Playoff rankings. The Cyclones were No. 24 in the committee’s initial poll prior to their 27-3 win over Kansas in Lawrence.

Alabama, Clemson, Notre Dame and Michigan make up the poll’s top-four spots. The Cyclones are one of four Big 12 teams in the rankings — joining Oklahoma (No. 6), West Virginia (No. 9) and Texas (No. 19).

Iowa State made its final appearance in last year’s second CFP rankings when they came in at No. 21. The Cyclones will take on Baylor this weekend at Jack Trice Stadium in a 2:30 p.m. kick on FS1.

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