Iowa State DECIMATED By Injuries Ahead Of Cincinnati, Can The Cyclones Overcome Adversity and Win?

The No. 14 Iowa State Cyclones’ impressive 5-0 start to the 2025 season has generated significant optimism, positioning them for a potential perfect run. However, that lofty goal now hangs precariously in the balance as the team faces an untimely injury plague, particularly in the last two weeks. The season's undefeated trajectory is now acutely at risk on Saturday against a talented Cincinnati Bearcats squad that is fighting to establish itself in the Big 12.The attrition has struck vital units, with the most glaring losses coming in the secondary—including the devastating, season-ending injury to star defensive back Jeremian Cooper—and key special teams personnel. This lack of defensive depth and reliable field goal kicking creates a precarious situation, as the defense, now depleted, must face a high-octane Cincinnati offense and its dynamic quarterback, Brendan Sorsby. The resulting pressure shifts decisively onto the Cyclones’ offense.For Iowa State to secure the crucial road victory and preserve their perfect season, quarterback Rocco Becht must perform at an elite, nearly flawless level. He has already proven his ability to be a "gut-check" quarterback, demonstrated by his five rushing touchdowns this season, including three against Arizona. Against Cincinnati, Becht must command sustained, methodical drives that manage the clock and keep the fragile defense off the field. His decision-making, coupled with his dual-threat capability, will be the sole compensatory factor for the Cyclones' defensive vulnerability. This game is no longer about winning—it is a referendum on Becht’s capacity to carry a wounded team to victory. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!5-Hour ENERGYEnough with boring, flavorless caffeine, it’s time to give your caffeine a flavor upgrade with 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots. Get the favorites you love or be bold and try something new in-store and online at https://www.5hourENERGY.com or Amazon today.  SquareTo learn more, go support your favorite neighborhood spot and see what Square has been up to in your neck of the woods. And then if you have extra time, check out https://square.com/go/lockedoncollegePelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com. QuoSee why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.MazdaIt’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle. Mazda. Move and Be Moved. 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 https://www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.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.