In the wake of Saturday’s football game, there is rampant negativity surrounding this team right now. I don’t feel like I’m being represented in the storm of coverage surrounding the Cyclones.

Being a fifth-year senior now, I’ve been a student during a lot of memorable football seasons and have gone to every bowl game in the modern era. There have been a lot of joyous and disappointing times with this team, but I remember back to when I was a kid when Iowa State perennially put absolute dogs on the field. I don’t think I ever saw them play until I was about 16, because the only way you were getting a play-by-play was listening to them on the radio. Now, after a couple of successful seasons, there are a lot of fans who have gotten greedy for wins.

I’ve heard a lot of people say things about the players and coaching staff that make me ashamed to say I’m part of this fan base. I’ve watched some great teams during my five years, and I have to say that I’ve never felt more proud to be associated with the football team than this year.

The turnaround from last year and success in the face of disbelief from the media and some fans show the true character of the players and coaches here at Iowa State. Getting down on this team for losing that game on Saturday would be selfish and deplorable, because it would illustrate how I care more about my good time than the people on the field or the university.

Nobody said you could do it, and you did. I’ll see you later this month in Houston, where it’s sunny and warm.

Bryce Carlson

Senior

English