Iowa State jumped out to a 7-0 lead in its opener against South Dakota State. Junior running back David Montgomery ripped off a 9-yard run.

Senior quarterback Kyle Kempt tossed a screen pass for a 55-yard touchdown. The Cyclone defense stuffed the Jackrabbits on South Dakota State’s opening drive.

Despite the strong start, none of it counts for Iowa State.

After an extended weather delay, Iowa State decided to call it a wrap at 9:42 p.m.

The official announcement stated that the game was canceled with no immediate plans for re-scheduling.

“[It’s] very disappointing that mother nature controlled the outcome of how today’s going to end,” said Iowa State Athletic Director Jamie Pollard. “At the end of the day the players’ safety is of utmost importance.”

Pollard said he communicated with coaches on each team throughout the process of the delay.

Looking toward the football part of the decision, Pollard said South Dakota State and Iowa State likely won’t re-schedule due to different bye weeks. Iowa State’s bye week falls on Oct. 20.

The Cyclones, though, do expect to re-schedule against another opponent during the bye week.

With the crummy weather, other schools elected to cancel games, meaning Iowa State could scoop up one of those opponents for its bye week.

If Iowa State fails to schedule an opponent for its bye week, the Cyclones will look to championship weekend, if they need the extra game.

This would likely occur if the Cyclones sit at 5-6 at the end of the season, needing one more win for bowl eligibility.

With the scheduling logistics covered, what about the fans?

“That is one of those questions that will be contingent probably on if we have another game or not,” Pollard said about offering fans in attendance on Saturday a refund or not.

On the field, the Cyclones were preparing for a game without a handful of contributors. Redshirt senior defensive lineman Kamilo Tongamoa, redshirt senior safety De’Monte Ruth and redshirt junior offensive lineman Julian Good-Jones faced one-game suspensions.

Pollard spoke with Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen and Faculty Athletics Representative Tim Day about the status of the suspensions.

“We’re all in agreement that the suspensions were served tonight,” Pollard said. “It’s not the student-athletes’ fault that the game couldn’t be in for weather.”

The final tidbit Pollard provided was on the financials of the game. Iowa State paid South Dakota State to come play in Ames.

The Jackrabbits will receive the full amount, according to Pollard.