AMES — Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht found himself at a pivotal moment during last season’s Big 12 opener against Oklahoma State.
After a 10-7 loss to Ohio, the Cyclones had a 1-2 overall record, and Becht’s touchdown-to-interception ratio was a modest 4-to-3. The team was in need of a lift, and Becht—who later earned Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors—rose to the occasion.
“I felt like that was a significant game for me,” Becht recalled, having completed 27 of 38 passes for 348 yards and three touchdowns in a crucial 34-27 victory over the Cowboys at Jack Trice Stadium. “I felt my leadership really showed in that game. I felt I had gained the respect of some teammates, and I respected them for trusting me, which helped build the relationship I maintained with them throughout the season.”
Unfortunately for Becht and the Cyclones, one of his teammates, Daniel Jackson, is likely to miss the entire 2024 season due to a lower leg injury sustained during fall camp. Jackson caught two of Becht’s three touchdown passes in the win against Oklahoma State and was anticipated to have a standout senior season before the injury.
“Daniel’s back with our football team already, but it’s tough because he’s faced so much already,” said ISU football coach Matt Campbell, noting that Jackson missed the entire 2022 season due to injury. “What he’s demonstrated is incredible leadership through it all, and we’ll navigate this situation for Daniel as we move forward. We care about Daniel and hold him in high regard.”
Daniel Jackson: A Leader in Adversity
Iowa State wide receiver Daniel Jackson has faced numerous challenges throughout his football career, and now he finds himself at another crossroads. Despite having a COVID-19 year of eligibility remaining, Jackson has already graduated and is set to pursue a master’s degree. Whether he will choose to utilize that extra year remains uncertain.
In a recent conversation, Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell emphasized the importance of taking time to assess the situation. “Let’s let this settle,” he said. “Let’s figure out where we are and if you’re ready to attack this thing from a football perspective.”
Even though Jackson’s hopes of making significant contributions on the field this season have dimmed due to injury, he continues to solidify his role as a leader. Campbell noted that Jackson was present at practice, actively supporting his teammates during scrimmages. “That indicates the man he is, and I don’t think we’ll lose that part of him,” Campbell remarked.
The competition in Iowa State’s wide receiver room is fierce, with standout players like Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel leading the charge. Higgins had an impressive 2023 season with 53 catches for 983 yards and six touchdowns, while Noel contributed 66 catches for 820 yards and seven touchdowns. Additionally, redshirt freshman Beni Ngoyi and transfers Isaiah Alston and Eli Green add to the depth of talent available.
For quarterback Rocco Becht, who threw 14 touchdown passes to just three interceptions in the last eight games of the previous season, the options are plentiful. Campbell praised Becht’s performance, stating, “Rocco really had a great scrimmage last Saturday.” He noted how Becht has matured and gained confidence over the past year, evolving from a player who was still figuring out his place to someone who is now ready to excel.
As Becht continues to build trust with his teammates and coaches, the focus shifts from proving he can perform to striving for greatness. “You see a different football player right now, which is hugely positive,” Campbell said. “He’s very mature and confident in understanding the process it takes to be his best on Saturdays.”
Daniel Jackson’s journey is a testament to resilience and leadership, and while his immediate future on the field may be uncertain, his impact on the team remains strong. The Cyclones are poised for a competitive season, and with players like Jackson and Becht leading the way, there’s plenty of reason for optimism.
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