Iowa State's Key Matchups Against Southeast Missouri

Iowa State opens the Jimmy Rogers era against Southeast Missouri, which already has a win over Indiana State. The Cyclones' secondary faces a test against quarterback Braylen Ragland, who threw for 274 yards in that victory. Special teams could also be a decisive factor, with Iowa State's kicking game expected to provide an edge.
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Iowa State enters this opener with significant roster turnover beyond the coaching change. The offensive line features five new starters, making cohesion a primary concern against a Southeast Missouri front that recorded 11 tackles for loss and four sacks in its season-opening win over Indiana State. Defensively, the Cyclones must compensate for the loss of safety Braden Awls, with cornerbacks David Coffey and Seth Johnson expected to carry the load against a quarterback who completed 26 of 36 passes for 274 yards.
Special teams could prove pivotal, as