Matt Campbell has made history as the winningest coach in Iowa State football history. This milestone came with a hard-earned victory over Houston, securing his 57th win and surpassing the legendary Dan McCarney.

Climbing the Mountain: Campbell’s Journey

From the outset, Campbell has been clear about the challenges of coaching in Ames. He often refers to “climbing the rough side of the mountain,” a phrase that encapsulates his determination to build a competitive program in a historically tough environment.

A Gritty Victory

The recent win against No. 19 Iowa State, a 20-0 showdown, was anything but easy. The game reflected Campbell’s philosophy of winning in the margins.

• First Half Struggles: Iowa State led just 3-0 at halftime. The offense stumbled, and questions lingered about their performance against a struggling Houston team.

• Second Half Breakthrough: A touchdown late in the third quarter finally created some breathing room, followed by Abu Sama’s stunning 77-yard touchdown run to seal the deal.

While the Cyclones (4-0, 1-0 Big 12) displayed resilience, the question remains: Was this a red flag for the offense or just one of those games every top-tier team must grind through?

The Variables at Play

Several factors contributed to the game’s subdued energy.

• Weather and Environment: An early-evening kickoff in 90-degree heat and a smaller crowd made for a less-than-electric atmosphere.

• Rising to the Challenge: Despite these circumstances, the Cyclones showcased the mental fortitude needed to win. It highlights a crucial point: good teams find ways to win, regardless of the odds.

This victory keeps Iowa State’s hopes alive while demonstrating the precarious nature of each Big 12 match.

The Path Ahead

Iowa State has the potential to achieve more this season, but there are no guarantees.

• Favorable Schedule: While the schedule looks promising, consistent performance is key.
• Scoring: The Cyclones must step up their offensive game to compete effectively in upcoming challenges.

Campbell’s Legacy: A Remarkable Turnaround

Campbell’s impact on Iowa State cannot be overstated. When he took over from Paul Rhoads, the program was struggling.

• Restoring Credibility: Campbell revitalised the team, steering it away from its previous laughingstock status.

• Milestone Achievements: Under his leadership, the Cyclones made history with their first-ever Big 12 title game appearance and a Fiesta Bowl championship in the 2020 season.

A New Era

Now, Campbell is entering a new phase in his coaching journey, often characterised by the “post-Brock Purdy” era.

• Program Stability: The team is poised for success, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.

The Debate: Best Coach in Iowa State History?

As Campbell racks up wins, discussions about his place in Iowa State football history become more relevant.

• Metrics of Success: While different criteria can be used to gauge the best coach—wins, influence, or milestones—Campbell is building a compelling case.

Consistency is Key

With each win, Campbell is not just adding to his record but crafting a narrative of resilience and achievement.

• Building a Legacy: The conversation about his legacy is shifting. It’s moving from speculation to consensus as his successes accumulate.

Conclusion

Matt Campbell’s journey as the winningest coach in Iowa State football history is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and strategic thinking.

As the Cyclones continue their season, the lessons learned from this gritty victory will be invaluable. Each game is a new opportunity to showcase their growth and potential, proving that Iowa State is indeed a force to be reckoned with in college football.

Relevant Links for further reading

• Iowa State Football: Iowa State Athletics
• Matt Campbell: Matt Campbell Coaching Profile
• Big 12 Championship: Big 12 Football