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Cyclone's New Star: Smith Jr. Ignites Defense
19 Jul
Summary
- Montreze Smith Jr. transferred from Duke and excelled at the FCS level.
- He recorded 73 tackles, four sacks, and three interceptions last season.
- Smith Jr. has three years of eligibility remaining for the Cyclones.
The Iowa State Cyclones face a pivotal season after a significant coaching transition, with Matt Campbell departing for Penn State and Jimmy Rogers taking the helm. The team is working to rebuild its talent roster. A player generating considerable excitement is linebacker Montreze Smith Jr., who transferred from Duke and proved impactful at the FCS level.
During his recent season, Smith Jr. amassed 73 total tackles, including four sacks, and notably secured three interceptions. His versatility across different aspects of the game highlights his potential as an X-factor for the Cyclones. With three years of eligibility remaining, he is considered a potential cornerstone for Iowa State's defense.
Despite his impressive performance, Smith Jr. has yet to prove himself at the FBS or Power Four level. The upcoming season will be a test of his ability to adapt and excel against higher competition. However, the coaching staff and fans are optimistic that he can become a leading figure in their quest for a bowl game in 2026.
