Oct 22, 2026 · 52 min
Iowa State weighs quarterback pressure and new leadership
The Beat Reporters: Arizona Preview, Exhibition Overreactions, Benko Impressions
Iowa State faces a difficult road test at Arizona while its football, basketball, and wrestling programs enter periods of transition.
- 1Jalen Raynor must navigate injuries around him against Noah Fifita and Arizona’s remaining offensive threats.
- 2Iowa State’s exhibition against Creighton offered early clues about Dom Plata, Leon Bond III, and the roster’s shooting needs.
- 3Jared Benko and Brent Metcalf are beginning new leadership chapters across Iowa State athletics.
Don't miss
The basketball segment’s early evaluation of Dom Plata turns one exhibition appearance into a test of what Iowa State’s new roster might become.
The brief
Jared Benko’s introductory press conference prompts a broader look at Iowa State athletics after Jamie Pollard’s long tenure and a period of institutional change.
The Arizona preview centers on Jalen Raynor’s ability to produce with injuries affecting Iowa State’s receivers, while Noah Fifita remains the Wildcats’ central threat.
The hosts revisit last year’s Arizona game before turning to exaggerated but revealing reactions from Iowa State’s exhibition against Creighton, including Dom Plata’s physical presence.
Creighton’s size and athleticism sharpen the basketball discussion, especially around Leon Bond III, shooting needs, and how exhibition performances can outpace the box score.
Brent Metcalf’s first wrestling media day closes the sports discussion, with Drake Ayala’s staff role and the transition from Kevin Dresser framing the program’s next phase.
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