The following is a press release from Iowa State Athletics Communications:
AMES, Iowa – Iowa State wide receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel have been named to the Biletnikoff Award Watch List, given annually to the top pass catcher in college football.
Iowa State was one of six schools nationally with multiple players on the list.
The senior pair ranks among the nation’s top returning duos for combined receptions (119), receiving yards (1,803) and receiving touchdowns (13).
Noel, a Kansas City, Missouri, native, finished the 2023 season with 66 receptions for 820 yards and seven receiving touchdowns. He has a reception in 32 consecutive games, tied for the fourth-longest streak in both school history and actively in the nation.
Higgins joined the Cyclones last season and provided an instant threat for Rocco Becht and the Cyclone offense. The South Miami, Florida, native had 53 receptions for 983 yards and six touchdowns. His. 18.5 yards per catch ranked among the nation’s top 20. Higgins concluded his season with a 214-yard performance against Memphis in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, the second-most receiving yards in a single game in school history.
Both players were recognized by Big 12 coaches in 2023. Noel was a Second Team All-Big 12 selection and Higgins an honorable mention pick.
Tickets for the 2024 football season are on sale now with a slate that features Kansas State and a Homecoming showdown with Texas Tech as well as others. Fans can purchase season tickets for as low as $299, while mini-packs, single-game tickets and parking are also on sale.
The Cyclones open the season August 31 against 2023 FCS Playoff qualifier North Dakota.