The Iowa State Cyclones are turning their attention to Saturday’s home game against Bowling Green, the final non‑conference contest of the season. The team hopes to rebound from a narrow 16‑13 defeat to rival Iowa that left players and coaches disappointed but determined.
Coaches stress consistency and preparation
Head coach Jimmy Rogers told reporters that the upcoming game is “just a game” and that the Cyclones will approach it the same way they prepared for Iowa. “We have to come out and execute at a high level. It’s more about how we do things than who we’re playing,” Rogers said.
Rogers also confirmed that senior wide receiver Evan Boyd will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a knee injury early in the Iowa game. Boyd, who transferred from Michigan State after one season, had been a key target in the passing attack.
Players echo the message of staying focused
Senior linebacker Carson Willich emphasized the team’s standard of effort, stating, “We set the standard, and that’s the standard for each and every week. We’re not going to treat Bowling Green any different than how we treated Iowa.”
Senior defensive end Caden Crawford added, “It’s good and stuff, but we can’t get too content with just playing a couple of good games. We have to keep our foot on the gas pedal and keep going at it like we were all camp.”
Sophomore running back Aiden Flora highlighted the emotional readiness of the squad: “How we prepared last week is how we have got to prepare every week. We did a very good job today. I think our energy with our practice was very good, our intent in meetings was very good. So that’s what I’m excited to see is that emotionally we’re not far behind.”
Looking ahead to Big 12 competition
The Bowling Green game serves as a final tune‑up before the Cyclones dive into Big 12 conference play. While the outcome of the non‑conference matchup will not affect conference standings, coaches and players view it as an opportunity to fine‑tune schemes, assess depth, and build confidence.
Fans can watch the game live on local television and stream it through the university’s athletic portal. Ticket sales have already begun, with a strong showing of student supporters expected at the stadium.
Key takeaways
- Cyclones aim to rebound from a 16‑13 loss to Iowa.
- Coach Jimmy Rogers stresses consistent preparation regardless of opponent.
- Senior linebacker Carson Willich and defensive end Caden Crawford call for sustained effort.
- Wide receiver Evan Boyd out for the season with a knee injury.
- Saturday’s home game against Bowling Green is the final non‑conference test before Big 12 play.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
