Aiden Flora’s explosive performance sparked a blowout victory, yet stagnant passing and a quiet pass rush reveal critical flaws the Cyclones must address before Big 12 play.
In their return to home at Jack Trice Stadium, the Iowa State Cyclones beat the Bowling Green Falcons 55-7 in a dominant display. The Cyclones, who were strong favorites, had complete control of the game and performed well on all three phases of the game.
Although a lot of things went well for Iowa State, there are also a few things that need fixing. Today we will list three things the Cyclones should continue doing in Week 4 and beyond (the do's), and three things they should avoid for the rest of the year (the don'ts).
Do’s
Feed Aiden Flora
The former walk-on just had a career day against the Bowling Green Falcons. Flora tallied 194 yards and two touchdowns on just 12 carries, including an explosive 61-yard rushing touchdown. Flora also showed off his skill on special teams with a big 66-yard touchdown on a punt return. Over the past three games, Flora has shown the ability to handle the workload of a workhorse back. The Cyclone should look to feed him more and make him the engine of their offense.
Let the offensive line lean on defenses
The Flora performance is tied to this offensive line. Their movement in the game against Bowling Green was incredible. They reestablished the line of scrimmage and moved to the second level at will. Allowing this offensive line to lean on people should be a major part of this Cyclone offense throughout this season.
Special teams' success
This game has three phases, and special teams always seem to be the forgotten one. Stats show that if you score or get a block on special teams, you will win 76% of the time. Iowa State’s special teams unit showed up against the Falcons with two touchdowns, with both the punt and kick return units scoring one. If this unit can play well throughout the season, this Cyclone team could play real complementary football in the Big 12.
Don’ts
Lacking air
The passing game may be becoming a concern. Quarterback Jaylen Raynor managed just 133 yards and a single touchdown with one interception on 17 passes against a Falcons secondary that has struggled throughout the season. In what was supposed to be a confidence-boosting matchup for the Cyclones, the passing game was one of the few things that did not show up.
No pressure
This pass rush has struggled all season, with only six sacks on the year. Against Bowling Green, the Cyclones recorded only one sack. This can not be something that carries over throughout the season if this team wants to see any success against Big 12 competition.
Who’s at receiver
The leading receiver against Bowling Green was freshman Jamal Polite Jr with only 34 yards. To improve this passing game, these receivers need to create separation and make it hard for the defense to see them. Against this, Bowling Green's secondary was very disappointing. The Cyclones need this to improve to compete against Big 12 competition.
Looking For A FREE Cyclones Community?
Don't miss out on our Roundtable community and the latest news! It's completely FREE to join.
Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members in the community section! Download the FREE Roundtable APP and stay even more connected!
Click here to join the fun and potentially win some FREE Cyclone swag!
