How can one explain the Iowa State football team's poor won-lost record? Speed, or the lack thereof. Think back to the large number of 'almosts' during this past season. The number of times the defense almost sacked the opposing quarterback; the number of times the defense almost tackled the opposing running back; the number of times the defense almost intercepted a pass, or made a play on the opposing pass receiver; the number of times of almost winning the game. Yes, this season can be defined by the number of almost made plays; particularly with the defense.
If our players were another step, or two quicker to the play, these 'almosts' would have been 'realities'. If the team made even half of these almost made plays, this season turns around, and those close losses become victories. We'd be talking about going to a bowl game this year instead of scratching our heads and wondering what went wrong. Yes, just being a step, or two faster makes all the difference in the world in college football today.
So, what does this realization portend for our beloved Cyclone football team? From what I've read and heard about who's on red shirt this year, and about the incoming recruiting class, our team will get a major upgrade in speed next season. Even though the team will be young again, having the speed to close upon opposing players will make up for many mistakes young players make. I foresee a major reduction in the number of 'Big Plays' made against the defense and more consistency on offense. Five victories would not be out of the question for next season with maybe a bowl game in sight if the team gets its share of lucky breaks. Won't that be a turnaround for the ages.
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