Rogers Credits Campbell's Legacy for Making Iowa State Job 'Unbeatable' Opportunity
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Iowa State's New Coach, Jimmy Rogers, has expressed his admiration for his predecessor, Matt Campbell, who led the Cyclones to the best 10-year period in program history. Campbell's departure for Penn State has triggered a new era for the team, with Rogers at the helm. The 38-year-old coach signed a six-year contract worth $3 million per year, a significant increase from his previous salary at Washington State. Rogers, a defensive specialist, has designs on installing a four-man front, a departure from the 3-3-5 alignment that was prevalent under former coordinator Jon Heacock. He has also expressed his intention to retain the majority of the current roster, although he acknowledges that some players will leave, including those who will follow Campbell to Penn State. In a heartfelt tribute to his predecessor, Rogers praised Campbell's leadership, saying, 'What he's done for this university the last decade, how he’s built the program, build a culture where the players love their coach.' He also credited Campbell for setting him up for success, stating, 'A large part of what Iowa State is and what the football program has become is due to Matt Campbell, and I’m thankful for him and that friendship.' Rogers' own coaching background is impressive, having grown up in Chandler, Arizona, and served as a walk-on linebacker at South Dakota State under coach John Stiegelmeier. He later became the head coach at the university, leading the Jackrabbits to an unbeaten season and a Championship Subdivision national title in 2023. His wife, Haley, is from Mitchell, South Dakota, making the move to Iowa State a family-friendly decision. Rogers' introduction to the Iowa State community has been marked by a sense of excitement and optimism, with the new coach promising to maintain the high level of coaching and camaraderie that Campbell established. Athletic director Jamie Pollard has praised Rogers' maturity and focus, saying, 'He's a man who knows what he wants, and he's willing to work hard to achieve it.'
