The Iowa State Cyclones have officially announced Jimmy Rogers as their next head football coach, replacing Matt Campbell, who left for Penn State on Friday afternoon.
Rogers, 38, comes to Ames after a one‑season stint with Washington State Cougars, where he wrapped up a 6–6 campaign. Iowa State made it official shortly after the Campbell news broke.
From Jackrabbit Player to Cyclone Head Coach
Rogers’ football journey began at South Dakota State Jackrabbits, where he starred from 2006–2009 as a linebacker. Over 46 games, he amassed 312 tackles, added multiple interceptions and forced fumbles, and served as a team captain his senior season.
He transitioned into coaching almost immediately — working as a graduate assistant at South Dakota State (defensive backs in 2010, linebackers in 2011), then spending a season at Florida Atlantic Owls in 2012. By 2013, he was back at his alma mater coaching linebackers.
Over time, Rogers climbed the ranks: assistant head coach and co‑defensive coordinator (2019–2021), then sole defensive coordinator in 2022 — a season in which the Jackrabbits defense ranked among the national leaders in rushing defense, scoring defense, and takeaways.
Championship Pedigree & What It Means for the Cyclones
When the longtime head coach at South Dakota State stepped down, Rogers was promoted. In 2023 — his first year leading the program — he guided the Jackrabbits to a perfect 15–0 season and the FCS National Championship.
The next season he delivered a strong follow-up (12–3), reaching the FCS semifinals before departing for Washington State.
Combined over three seasons as a head coach, Rogers owns a 33–9 record — a winning percentage and track record that reflect both consistency and high-level success.
That proven winning formula is exactly what Iowa State’s administration highlighted. Athletic Director Jamie Pollard said Rogers has “very strong ties to the Midwest both as a player and as a coach” and has been on the Cyclones’ shortlist for several years.
Challenges — and High Expectations — Ahead
Rogers inherits a Cyclones program that, under Campbell, earned national notice and some of the most consistent success in recent school history. Now, the expectations are high: building on recent momentum, competing in the Big 12 Conference, and maintaining the upward trajectory both on the field and in recruiting.
Transitioning from the FCS level (albeit with a short FBS stop at Washington State) to a Power‑4 conference will present challenges — but Rogers’ defensive pedigree, championship experience, and familiarity with the Midwest make him an intriguing fit for the Cyclones’ next chapter.
