Coach -

We are excited to have had at least one coach from each of the top 25 teams presenting at our clinics.  Today we take a look at #25 Iowa State.  In 2023, Senior Defensive Analyst Jeff Mills helped the team finish among the top three in the Big 12 in scoring defense (third, 22.8), total defense (second, 363.2) and rushing defense (second, 134.2). 

We take a look at the 2024 Cylcones team and highlight what Coach Mills teaches when it comes to defensive back play.

Season Preview Capsule

If there is one recurring theme throughout the course of this Top 25 countdown, it is the anticipation of a competitive Big 12 and the promise of an intriguing season ahead. The expansion of the playoffs adds another layer of interest, with the possibility of two teams advancing from the Power 4 conferences.

The Iowa State Cyclones football program has been rejuvenated following a challenging period marked by 10 losing seasons in 11 years (2006-2016). Under Coach Matt Campbell's guidance, they have achieved six winning seasons in the past seven years. This season, the team is poised for greater consistency, bolstered by returning veterans on both offense and defense, along with a favorable Big 12 schedule.

Offensively, improvements are expected with a solid offensive line, a dynamic quarterback, and skilled receivers. Defensively, the team boasts experience, particularly in the safety positions, but will need to enhance their turnover management. If they can effectively control possession, Iowa State stands a strong chance of contending for the Big 12 championship.

Iowa State Strengths:

Offense:

• Experienced Offensive Line: 4 returning starters and a strong overall unit.
• Emerging Quarterback: Rocco Becht finished the season strong with good TD:INT ratio.
• Talented Receivers: Top 4 receivers return, including All-Big 12 Jayden Higgins.
• Improved Running Back: Abu Sama returns as leading rusher, with Jaylon Jackson added for depth.

Defense:

• Experienced Secondary: Myles Purchase leads a group with returning starters.
• Strong Safety Duo: Jeremiah Cooper and Beau Freyler led the team in tackles and interceptions.

It will start with the defensive backfield and be led the rest of the way from there and that is exactly where we kick things off. 

Clinic: Rely on Your Technique

Understanding and having a concept of what you need out of your defensive backs and clearly communicating that with them is the beginning point of any DB room, they have to know if lockdown man, or stingy zone coverage is their personality and in some cases it's a mix of each. At the end of the day though what you communicate and what you put the importance on is the fundamentals of the room and will be how you measure their progress and success. 

Coach Mills gives the priorities of the Iowa State defensive backfield in this video.

Video: Overview of DB Fundamentals

Iowa State has been a popularized the 3-high safety defense, emphasizing effort in their approach to rallying to the football and covering the alley. As the defense incorporates more defensive backs, communication becomes crucial. These players must interpret the game plan and make adjustments based on the opponent's formations.

Video: Communication

Effective communication among your athletes is crucial, as it enhances their understanding of the entire defensive strategy. This clarity enables them to execute various looks, disguise blitzes effectively, and present coverages in deceptive ways.

For the Cyclones, generating turnovers is paramount, especially at a higher rate than they commit them. In zone coverage, their defense must capitalize on every opportunity presented. With a veteran defensive backfield, Iowa State relies on this ability to consistently gain an advantage over their opponents.

Video: Disguise

The success of this defense is largely reliant on the safety positions. From there their reliance on communication, disguising their defenses while timely and effectively taking advantage of the opportunities opposing QB’s will inevitably give them is going to be what makes and breaks the season for the Cyclones.

Expect Defensive Coordinator Jon Heacock to get creative and utilize his veteran corp as much as possible. 

Other Clinics from the Iowa State Staff:

Our Main Focus and 10 Steps to Reach Our Full Potential - Matt Campbell, Head Coach

Integrating FB & TE in Play Action Passing Game - Tyler Roehl, Asst HC/RB

Tight End Training for a More Dynamic Offense - Tyler Roehl, Asst HC/RB

Training a Physical Fullback to Dominate the Run Game - Tyler Roehl, Asst HC/RB

Tyler Roehl Bundle

Save with these bundles as you prepare for camp:

2024 Prep for Camp: LB Edition

2024 Prep for Camp: RB Edition

2024 Ultimate OC School