BREAKING: Recruiting Is BAD In New Era Of College Football, Kenny Dillingham Says Retention is KEY

Kenny Dillingham's assertion that "recruiting is dead, retention is alive" encapsulates a growing sentiment in college football, emphasizing the importance of player development and loyalty in the transfer portal era. While retention is undeniably crucial, this perspective doesn't necessarily diminish the importance of recruiting for every program, especially one like Iowa State. For the Cyclones, success has been built on a robust foundation of excelling at both recruiting and retaining talent.Iowa State, under Matt Campbell, has consistently punched above its weight in recruiting. They've mastered the art of identifying undervalued prospects who fit their specific cultural and schematic needs, often developing two and three-star recruits into NFL-caliber players. This isn't just about finding warm bodies; it's about strategic, targeted recruiting that brings in individuals committed to the program's long-term vision.Simultaneously, Iowa State boasts an impressive track record of retention. Their strong team culture, player-first approach, and consistent coaching staff have fostered an environment where athletes want to stay, grow, and contribute. Players buy into the program's philosophy, seeing a clear path to development and success, which minimizes departures through the transfer portal.Thus, for Iowa State, it's not a zero-sum game between recruiting and retention. Their ability to consistently bring in the right talent and keep them within the program has been a cornerstone of their rise. Dillingham's statement highlights a critical shift in the landscape, but Iowa State demonstrates that for some, mastering both facets remains the optimal path to sustained competitiveness. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelRight now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.