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Iowa State at The Voice of College Football

Iowa State at The Voice of College Football

By: The Voice of College Football Network
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Welcome to Iowa State at The Voice of College Football Network, your home for In-depth discussion, debate, & analysis on all things Iowa State. We have you covered from offseason all the way to game day. Join us as we embark on another season!Go Cyclones!For business inquiries please contact: Markrogerstv@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.The Voice of College Football Network Football Politics & Government
Episodes
  • SPRING SHOWCASE PREVIEW | WILL SLAGLE RECOMMITS | Iowa State Cyclones LIVE #63

    SPRING SHOWCASE PREVIEW | WILL SLAGLE RECOMMITS | Iowa State Cyclones LIVE #63
    Apr 22 2026
    Opening & Show Context Hosts greet listeners; casual chat about weather (first 80° day) and shifting focus back to football.Men's basketball season is "100% settled"; women's basketball still adding recruits (full roster evaluation later).Main topics: Will Slagle recommitment (big in-state win) + other 2027 recruiting notes, plus preview of the Spring Showcase (first public look at new offense/defense, players, and staff under Rogers). Key Recruiting Discussion: Will Slagle Recommits Will Slagle (Grinnell, IA; 6'4", ~280-305 lbs; 4-star composite/ high 3-star on some services; top OL in Iowa for 2027 class) recommitted to Iowa State on April 17, 2026. He had originally committed under Matt Campbell but decommitted after the coaching change.Why it matters: Lifelong Iowa State fan (dad and uncle attended); huge for new staff to retain a high-caliber in-state talent and maintain foothold in Iowa against rivals like Iowa. Demonstrates staff's dedication to in-state recruiting.Offer list was elite: Arkansas, Auburn, Duke, Iowa, Kansas, Kansas State, Miami, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Northwestern, Penn State, Stanford, Wisconsin, plus North/South Dakota State. Recent visits included Miami (NIL-heavy, strong recruiter in Mario Cristobal) and others like Notre Dame/Iowa/Penn State.Hosts call it a "momentous" early win—feels like a centerpiece recruit (similar to past Iowa State O-linemen like Trevor Downing). Allows building the class around elite OL talent; already 3 of 6 commits in 2027 class are O-linemen.Positive vibes: Committed at a tailgate previously; decommitted fairly but left door open and chose home over bigger programs/money. Hosts joke about Jimmy Rogers delivering a motivational speech akin to old Paul Rhodes-era moments (e.g., Allen Lazard). Other 2027 Recruiting Notes Isaiah Hansen (Newton, IA; RB): Bumped to consensus 4-star; now the #1 player in Iowa for the class. Hosts recall watching his high school tape (Newton game) and liking him pre-offer; funny note about his old 247 photo in an Iowa hoodie (compared to Brees Hall's old Iowa pic).Bryson Thompson: Rating bump (e.g., to .87 or similar on 247).Class off to a "great start" with momentum—mix of high-profile in-state guys and pursuing higher-end out-of-state talent (shift from prior staff's "diamonds in the rough" approach). Current commits include OL focus plus others like Bryson Thompson, Koen Hinzman, etc. Class currently ranks around top 40 nationally in some services (with multiple 4-star composites).Keaton Wollan (or Wallen; Amery, WI; 6'3", 205 lbs; 3-star composite LB; two-way high school player, projects to LB): New commit mentioned (committed shortly before/during episode timeframe). Recent visits to Wisconsin/Minnesota but chose Iowa State; hosts discuss his athleticism, size, and need to add weight (20-25 lbs) in college program. Tape shows good downhill play, form tackling, traffic filtering; raw but with upside.Broader staff philosophy shift: Treating Iowa State as a "high-end job"; pursuing 4-stars and competing in battles rather than just underdog/diamonds-in-rough strategy. Still finding sleepers (e.g., Thompson was unrated at offer time). Early success seen as proof of dedicated, aggressive approach. Recruiting Philosophy & Program Outlook New staff recalibrating approach: Heavy on top in-state targets + higher-profile out-of-state guys; actively competing vs. bigger programs.Comparison to Matt Campbell era: Campbell's classes weren't dramatically higher-ranked (often top 50-60 range even after success like Fiesta Bowl); current 2027 class sitting higher early (~top 37-40 in some rankings).2026 season as "proof of concept": Even after roster/coaching turnover, aim for bowl eligibility (6-6 or better) to reset floor and show stability/competitiveness in Big 12. Schedule allows path to 7-8 wins if pieces click. Re-establishing baseline prevents sliding to "back of the conference."Optimism: Guys like Slagle/Hansen provide building blocks; vision and momentum under Rogers feel different (no longer leaning on pure underdog mentality post-recent successes). Spring Showcase Preview (April 25) Format: Not a full-contact spring game (injury risk too high); more like organized practice/scrimmage—light, focused on scheme/install. No opponent (e.g., no UNI idea dismissed for safety/competitiveness reasons). Gates open ~10 a.m.What to watch: All positions, but emphasis on chemistry (new pieces meshing).Offense: Jalen Rainer (QB transfer) — footwork, ball placement, escapability, fit in power-run scheme (vs. his prior Air Raid-style at Arkansas State). O-line development/gelling (defense likely ahead early due to transfers/proven pieces). New receiving corps (limited passing expected; focus on run game). Cam Pettway's game-changing speed in space; Aiden Flores' wheels. Small details over big plays.Defense: Defensive line (strongest unit potential—depth from Washington State transfers + returners like ...
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    1 hr and 25 mins
  • Otz's Big Transfer Weekend | New Football Commits | Iowa State Cyclones LIVE#62

    Otz's Big Transfer Weekend | New Football Commits | Iowa State Cyclones LIVE#62
    Apr 15 2026
    Basketball Segment: Milan Momcilovic's Decision Momcilovic (6'8" forward) declared for the 2026 NBA Draft while entering the transfer portal. He led the nation in 3-point shooting percentage last season (~48.7% on high volume, a modern record for his attempts) and was Iowa State's leading scorer (~16.9 PPG).Hosts note he declared for the draft in prior years but returned for feedback. This time, the move feels more final due to timing and NIL realities.Concerns: Without Joshua Jefferson's spacing, defenses could clamp him more in 2025-26. A potential Florida return (rumors of big NIL) would sting, especially in a hypothetical Sweet 16 matchup.Financial/math angle: Top college players like Milan often earn more via NIL than as second-round NBA picks (two-way/G-League deals). First-round guarantees change the equation. A fringe first/second-round projection makes the decision tricky.Historical comps: His shooting season was elite (better volume/context than many all-time greats, on a deeper 3-point line). Replicating 50% is unlikely; even 45% next year could have made him a lottery pick in a weaker 2027 class.Roster impact: Iowa State can't wait until late May (NBA deadline) with portal timing. They spread his substantial NIL across multiple pieces. Door isn't fully closed for a return, but logistics (coordinated announcements with Ryan Prather) suggest it was planned. AJ Green's path (stayed in draft, succeeded with Bucks) is cited as a positive precedent.Proposed fix: Align transfer portal window and NBA draft deadline (e.g., early/mid-May) so teams/players make informed choices without fringe prospects getting squeezed. Overall take: Bitter-sweet but understandable. Momcilovic pursued his NBA dream after a historic shooting year. Iowa State moves on quickly thanks to Otzelberger's portal work. Basketball Transfers: Otzelberger's "Big Weekend" (5-for-5 Commitments) T.J. Otzelberger hosted five visitors; all committed without other visits. Roster is now at 15 (solidified for 2026-27). Hosts praise the fit, depth, and speed. Ryan Prather Jr. (Sr., 6'5" 205, from Robert Morris): Big-bodied guard/wing, strong shooter/playmaker, high IQ, academic all-conference. Rebounds well for size. Question: Athleticism/defense in ISU system? Expected to slim down in offseason. Plug-and-play scorer (38% from 3 last year; more space could push 40%+). High-usage at prior stop, but won't be "the guy" here. Solid Emil replacement vibe.Taj Manning (Sr., from Kansas State): Veteran forward (~6'7"), strong rebounder (4-6+ boards in limited/expanded minutes). Picked up production mid-season. Fills a depth/"Eric Mulder upgrade" role: 5-10 minutes, 6&6 type, physical, competent defender. Locker-room veteran presence is a bonus. Not a 15-20 MPG guy, but valuable grinder.Leon Bond III (from Northern Iowa/Virginia): Freak athlete (6'5" plays bigger, long, tenacious defender). Catch-and-shoot capable (~36% from 3). Compared to a defensive Deontay Burton or Nate Heisey-style junkyard dog. Loves transition dunks, physical boards. Hosts call it a perfect TJ fit—high-floor defender who could be an X-factor (ceiling like Mariel Shayok in system). Big-time pickup for versatility and motor.Jaquan Johnson ("Bully," from Bradley? Milwaukee area): 5'9"-5'11", 205 lbs, thick build. Explosive stats: ~17 PPG, 4 RPG, 3.5 APG on 42% shooting; elite defense (2.5 SPG, 10th in country in steal rate, MVC Defensive POY). 38% from 3. Near-perfect Taman Lipsy replacement (but with better shooting). Pat Beverly with a jumper or mini-Javon Carter vibe. Paired with Killyan Toure in backcourt = nightmare for offenses. High-floor, two-year piece.Trey Singleton (Fr./So., from Northwestern): 6'8" forward, Joshua Jefferson comp (point-forward in transition, rebounder, passer). Freshman who showed flashes (double-doubles vs. good teams; strong vs. Iowa in exhibition). Not as polished as Jefferson yet, but fits the system blueprint perfectly. May need time adjusting to Big 12 physicality (Big Ten was down). High ceiling; could start or key bench piece. Shot needs work (confidence/rhythm with staff), but not broken—aim for solid 30-35% to keep defenses honest. Bust potential discussion: Jaquan/Leon have high floors (defense-first). Taj/Prather have low expectations (depth/scoring bursts). Trey has highest relative bust risk due to Jefferson-sized shoes, but also highest ceiling. All are hand-in-glove fits replacing prior pieces or adding depth/athleticism. Roster is done—no more portal scrambling. Prioritizing visits over bidding wars is smart. Hosts love the veteran mix, defensive potential (e.g., disgusting lineup: Toure/Johnson/Bond/Buchanan/Plata), and how quickly Otz locked it in. Summer arrival likely end of semester/May for classes. Football Segment Braden Awls (Awls) injury: Safety transfer from Toledo (expected Big 12 newcomer contender, potential All-Big 12/first-team talent, NFL upside) tore his ACL in a routine spring blocking drill. Season-ending....
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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • Wrapping up the Cyclone MBB Season & Offseason Priorities | Iowa State Cyclones LIVE #61

    Wrapping up the Cyclone MBB Season & Offseason Priorities | Iowa State Cyclones LIVE #61
    Apr 1 2026
    Episode Overview Host: Levi Stevenson (also associated with CF After Dark).Main Topics: Wrap-up of the 2025-26 Iowa State men's basketball season (29-8 record, Sweet 16 appearance), offseason priorities for T.J. Otzelberger's program, a brief note on quiet football spring practices under Jimmy Rogers, and a deeper dive into the women's basketball roster crisis plus Big 12 expansion news on flag football.Tone: Conversational, fan-focused analysis with optimism for MBB continuity, concern for WBB, and excitement about potential new sports. Men's Basketball Season Recap Season ended with a Sweet 16 loss to Tennessee (size/rebounding mismatch highlighted).Key injury: Joshua Jefferson (All-American forward) was unavailable due to ankle injury; he wasn't close to playing even in a potential next round. Without him, the team was "doomed" in that matchup.Strengths shown: Hustle plays, 3-point shooting at times, defensive effort.Weaknesses exposed: Rebounding (especially without Jefferson), free-throw shooting (team-wide issue, notably Blake Buchanan at ~49%), size down low against taller/longer teams like Tennessee.Levi notes the loss was a tough matchup; even beating Tennessee likely wouldn't have led past Michigan without Jefferson. Offseason Priorities for Men's Basketball Levi outlines clear focus areas for building on the core: Retain Talent: Confirmed/Expected Returns: Blake Buchanan (Jr, big, explicitly said he's back), Killyan Toure (rising freshman guard, strong defender), Jamarion Batemon (rising freshman guard, 3-and-D upside), Dominykas Pleta (big, returning). This gives a solid young core.Milan Momcilovic (elite 3-point shooter, ~16.9 PPG): Declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft (standard process; he can return). Future depends on draft feedback—likely mid/late first or second round. Levi sees development upside in defense, playmaking, rebounding, and toughness. Money/NIL will factor in; many expect him back unless a strong first-round projection. Address Size and Rebounding (Especially at 4/5): Need athletic length, motor, and rim protection/rebounding to avoid small-ball issues seen vs. Tennessee.Targets: Transfer portal for a versatile 4/5 (ideally 6'8"+ with hustle like a "Dustin Hogue" or "Melvin Ejim" type—high-motor rebounder who makes dirty plays).Incoming freshmen mentioned: Dorian Ronaldo Comlin (6'10" French big, raw but potential rim protector/lob threat; friends with Toure), Jackson Kiss, Christian Wiggins (Mr. Basketball Minnesota; bucket-getter with defense), Yusuf Gray (developmental). Replace Hustle/Junkyard Dog Role (Nate Heise/Tamin Lipsey): Losing two high-effort guys who made tough plays. Develop Dom Pleta into a taller, skilled version (6'8"+ Nate Heise type—hustle, rebounding, corner 3s, rim defense).Expand Pleta's game using his European tape (perimeter skills, shooting, attacking). Develop Young Core (Toure, Batemon, Pleta, Buchanan): Toure: Improve decision-making, pick-and-roll orchestration, jumper efficiency.Batemon: Control energy/adrenaline in big games; refine as a 3-and-D scorer who attacks selectively (Naz Long 2.0 upside).Buchanan: Free throws (priority—Levi cites Victor Wembanyama as proof bigs can shoot better), add strength (~10-15 lbs), low-post moves/touch, distributing off handoffs/pick-and-rolls. He's a "finished product" to some degree but still improvable.Pleta: Full offseason (visa issues limited last one) to get comfortable; potentially stretch him to 4 or develop as a hustle wing/forward. Free-Throw Shooting & Other: Team-wide emphasis (unacceptable last season).Portal activity expected for scoring guard depth and size; mid-major upgrades have been a successful Otzelberger strategy. Overall optimism: Strong returning pieces + portal/recruits position them well for another competitive Big 12/NCAA run. Women's Basketball Situation "Tsunami" of transfers: Down to essentially 2-3 players (Evangeline Apolk/Paulk, Ariana Jackson, Audi Crooks—her status uncertain). Multiple starters/role players (including Addy Brown, Jada Williams, etc.) entered the portal.Levi's take: Program "not working" for a while; recent tournament success tied to standout scorers/defenders like Ashley Joens or Crooks.Recommendation: Bill Fennelly needs deeper conversations with AD Jamie Pollard, family, staff, and remaining players to diagnose issues and plan forward. Heavy portal reliance incoming with limited high school recruits. Big 12 Flag Football News Report from Ben Portnoy (Sports Business Journal): Big 12 exploring flag football (likely women's, possibly men's) as an official sport, aiming for competition in 2028. Partnership with NFL involved.Context: Replacing the defunct gymnastics program. Women's wrestling was the expected favorite due to Iowa's wrestling culture and in-state talent pipeline.Levi's analysis: Flag football has lower startup costs (minimal equipment: flags, balls, cleats; can use existing indoor/outdoor facilities like football/soccer fields or rec ...
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    1 hr and 2 mins
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