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Columnist Travis Hines expects Iowa State football will have another successful season in 2025, despite a challenging schedule.

Key returning players and a strong coaching staff contribute to high expectations.

Early-season matchups against Kansas State and Iowa will be crucial for setting the tone.

AMES — As the summer doldrums of June and July give way to the mounting anticipation of August, there appears to be a new phenomenon setting in for the Iowa State football .

The benefit of the doubt and belief in coach Matt Campbell's Cyclones football program is at an all-time high.

Which is to say, despite some clear questions, important personnel losses and a fairly difficult schedule in 2025, most seem to believe that the Cyclones will not only be just fine, bu

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