Quarterback Competition Intensifies: Iowa State Football’s Starting Position Undecided
In an exciting turn of events for Iowa State Football, head coach Matt Campbell has yet to name a starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Traditionally, the starting quarterback is announced before the Victory Day event, but this year the decision has been delayed. The competition is currently between redshirt freshman Rocco Becht and highly-regarded true freshman J.J. Kohl, with both players showcasing their skills during the event held at Jack Trice Stadium.
Coach Campbell expressed his satisfaction with the competitive spirit displayed by both quarterbacks throughout training camp. Due to the team’s overall youth, Campbell emphasized the likelihood of multiple players seeing playing time, even at key positions such as quarterback. He outlined the importance of the upcoming practices to determine the starter for their first game against Northern Iowa.
Excitement surrounds the quarterback battle as both Becht and Kohl demonstrate their potential to lead the Cyclones. Becht, despite being a redshirt freshman, has the most game experience among the candidates, having thrown 15 passes in limited action last season. His leadership qualities are highly regarded by his teammates and he is known for his competitive nature.
On the other hand, Kohl, a four-star recruit and early enrollee, has already made a strong impression with his remarkable physique standing at 6’7 and weighing 250 pounds. His talent as a passer puts him in contention for the starting role. Kohl’s dedication to learning the system and seeking extra work has impressed both coaches and teammates, making him a formidable opponent for Becht.
Adding to the mix is junior college transfer Tanner Hughes, who brings valuable experience from Butte College. Standing at 6’5 and weighing 240 pounds, Hughes possesses a powerful running ability and a strong arm. Although not presently a front-runner for the starting position, Hughes could potentially be used in specific packages throughout the season.
The suspension of last year’s starting quarterback, Hunter Dekkers, due to his involvement in an ongoing investigation into sports gambling, has opened up the competition further. As a result, the Cyclones are faced with the challenge of starting a relatively inexperienced quarterback in the Big 12 conference. This circumstance has led to a prolonged battle for the starting role and a greater emphasis on the ability of each player to handle the pressure of game situations.
When considering the selection of a starting quarterback, two critical factors come into play according to Coach Campbell. The first is leadership, as the chosen quarterback must be someone who can rally and inspire the team. The second factor is taking care of the football, a crucial aspect of successful quarterback play. Previous successful quarterbacks at Iowa State have excelled in protecting the ball. Campbell believes that with time, the other necessary qualities will develop in the chosen starter.
With the upcoming season opener against Northern Iowa looming, the anticipation among fans and teammates rises. The quest for the starting quarterback position remains uncertain as Becht, Kohl, and Hughes continue to vie for the opportunity. The coaching staff aims to make an informed decision that will maximize the team’s chances of success as they navigate the challenges of the new season.
In conclusion, the competition between Rocco Becht and J.J. Kohl to claim the starting role for Iowa State Football’s quarterback position remains ongoing. Both young quarterbacks possess unique strengths and qualities that make the decision intriguing for Coach Campbell. As the players strive to prove themselves during practice, the ultimate goal is to find a leader who can guide the team and protect the football. The Cyclones eagerly await the unveiling of their starting quarterback as they prepare to face Northern Iowa in their season opener.
