What's Happening?
Iowa State University faced a unique challenge during their recent football game against Colorado, as injuries to their regular kickers forced the team to turn to Carson Rhodes, a 310-pound freshman offensive lineman, as an emergency kicker. Rhodes, who is listed as the team's fourth-string kicker, made his college debut in the third quarter of the game, which ended in a 24-17 loss for Iowa State. The Cyclones, ranked No. 22, have been dealing with a series of injuries to their kickers, including starter Kyle Konrardy, who has been out since September 13. Backup kicker Chase Smith was injured during the opening kickoff of the second half, prompting Rhodes to step in. Despite the unusual circumstances, Rhodes managed to kick the ball just beyond the opposing 20-yard line.
Why It's Important?
The decision to use an offensive lineman as a kicker highlights the depth issues Iowa State is facing due to injuries. This situation underscores the importance of having versatile players who can adapt to unexpected roles. The Cyclones, who were previously undefeated, have now lost two consecutive games and are positioned eighth in the Big 12 standings. The team's ability to manage player injuries and adapt to unforeseen challenges will be crucial as they aim to recover and improve their standing in the conference. The use of Rhodes as a kicker also reflects the broader challenges college football teams face in maintaining a full roster of healthy players throughout the season.
What's Next?
Iowa State will have a bye week to regroup and address their injury concerns before facing No. 18 ranked BYU at Jack Trice Stadium on October 25. The team will need to assess the status of their injured kickers and consider potential strategies to prevent further disruptions. The coaching staff may explore additional training for players in unconventional roles to ensure readiness for future games. The upcoming match against BYU will be a critical test for the Cyclones as they seek to regain their momentum and improve their position in the Big 12.
