It is time to start thinking about the upcoming football season and the inaugural season of the Big 12, which has been billed as the strongest conference in football.

The question now becomes how will the Cyclones fare in the newly expanded conference?

My prediction is that the Cyclones will have a record of 5-6, with wins coming against Wyoming, Northern Iowa, Missouri, Oklahoma State, and Baylor.

Before you get all bent out of shape saying I should expect the team to win every game and questioning my team spirit, let me explain.

Despite the overachieving efforts of the Cyclones last year, namely Troy Davis and Dan McCarney, neither of the two have big red and yellow S’s on their chests.

At least I don’t think they do. I guess it is possible, but that would really be embarrassing at the beach, wouldn’t it?

Anyway, the fact is they play some of the toughest teams in football, and Iowa State is still in the building stages. The team is starting to gain a new personality under McCarney and his coaching staff, as well as, dare I say, some confidence in the team’s abilities. And they should.

There are still those who speculate the legitimacy of Iowa State’s offense, and even more who doubt the presence of a defense to line up opposite such Big 12 powerhouses as Nebraska, Colorado, and Texas A&M.

Wasn’t anybody listening when McCarney guaranteed that Iowa State would not finish last in the conference in defense? I don’t think he is the type of coach to not live up to his word.

As for the offense, some actually have the audacity to suggest that Iowa State’s running game will not be as potent due to the fact that opponents will now be keying on Troy Davis.

Hellooooo! What do you think everyone did last season — expect 500 yards of passing?!

You have to be kidding, after the first game that Troy gained almost 300 yards, defenses started to look for the number 28 on every play.

Troy will get yards this year, and unbiased, non-influenced voters willing, he will be the proud winner of the Heisman.

Let us not forget that another running back will be joining Troy in the backfield. What was his name? Darren, something? Oh yeah, Davis. Darren Davis.

Troy’s little brother with the 4.4 time in the 40-yard dash, who was heavily recruited by such schools as Florida State.

Passing may be the biggest question for the ‘Clones.

Last year there were signs of brilliance in the form of Ed Williams sprinting down the sidelines after a crossing pattern. Iowa State fans should look forward to more of the same and hope for a healthy Todd Doxon.

We have to remember that it was only two years ago that ISU had a winless season, and try not to put any unwarranted pressure on the team.

They will do us proud and eventually be in a bowl game. The fans need to just keep up the support and enjoy the ride.

Brandon Belisle is a junior in journalism.