After five seasons in the program, J.R. Singleton understands what it takes to succeed at Iowa State.
Winning is more than just having top recruits and a strong coaching staff. That has been the common belief in Ames for a long time.
It also involves chemistry and a shared goal, which Singleton says the Cyclones have plenty of.
“We love each other,” the defensive lineman stated. “I feel like that’s really hard to do this day and age in college football. With NIL and stuff, everyone’s really just thinking about trying to get theirs. Being fulfilled in life as a man is about giving to others and worrying about other people and not trying to just get whatever you want.
That’s why we’re really successful, the love we have for each other.”
The ninth-ranked Cyclones (6-0, 3-0 Big 12) are having their best start since 1938 as they prepare for Saturday night’s home game against UCF (3-3, 1-2).
UCF coach Gus Malzahn pointed out that Iowa State’s improvement comes from many players being in Matt Campbell’s system for three, four, or five years.
“A lot of these guys have played a lot of football,” Malzahn said.
Singleton is one of 18 returning starters this season, and he believes the team’s experience reflects Campbell’s recruiting approach.
“When coach Campbell recruits people, he says if you come here, you’re called to be here,” Singleton explained. “This is not a place where you’re going to get the glitz and the glamour and you walk outside and you’re like, ‘This place is amazing.’
It’s not like we’re in a huge city. Just the love we have for each other and the belief we have in our coaches. They really care about you as a man and growing you as a man.”
