Despite the troubles that have befallen the ISU football team in the past week, at least three recruits who have made verbal commitments to Iowa State’s program say the incidents have not changed their minds about the quality of the school or its football squad.

In the past week, three ISU football players have been arrested, leading to their indefinite suspension from the team.

Cephus Johnson was arrested and charged Saturday with assault. Then, on Monday, Jerry Gair and Tyease Thompson were arrested and charged with attempted burglary.

Those arrests follow the misconduct of teammates Jason Berryman, who is serving jail time for assault and theft, and Josh Hargis, who was found guilty of disorderly conduct and was consequently removed from the team.

But Chris Mahoski, a kicker from Bettendorf, said his commitment to Iowa State is simply for the game.

“The team was great, and the players and coaches were awesome,” he said. “There won’t be any trouble if you don’t create it, and I’m optimistic for joining this team.”

Mahoski’s father, Chuck, said he agreed that the players’ bad choices shouldn’t reflect upon Iowa State’s name.

“We shouldn’t pass judgment on the players because we don’t know all the facts, and this is a tough issue,” Chuck said. “There are social pressures that they run into when they’re out in general public, and people that are in sports are more in the public eye.”

Chuck said the situation is complicated, and people should not be passing judgment against the team, the coaches or the university. But, he said, the players need to hold themselves to a higher standard.

Chris said he agrees that the players are coming into a good program and shouldn’t be alarmed by any recent scandals.

“The different parts of the team have done a great job with the guys that will be stepping up, and everyone will have the same opportunities to earn their way,” he said. “This team will be going places and I want to be a part of that.”

Becky Flander said her son, Trent — who played tight end at Dowling High School in West Des Moines — should have no worries about playing for Iowa State, especially under the guidance of head coach Dan McCarney.

“After the Jason Berryman incident we were somewhat concerned about it, but they handled it appropriately,” she said. “Coach Mac is a great guy and will handle it in the best way for the program. We trust that he will do the right thing.”

Running back Dominique Rocker of Tavares, Fla., said the arrests didn’t sway his decision either.

“I got along well with the coaches and players, and the chance to play early was huge,” he said. “People have control over themselves and they do what they want to do. They’re grown men.”

Rocker said the arrests should not detract from the perceived character of all players who wear an ISU jersey.

The athletic department declined to comment about recruitment, citing NCAA recruitment rules.