Iowa State Defensive Players to Watch vs. Baylor in Week 4
The Iowa State defense, one of the more consistent aspects of the Cyclones football program over the past five seasons, aims to fill some major holes with just five starters returning from the 2021 squad.
Between seniors graduating, players transferring and guys being drafted to the NFL, Iowa State has numerous spots where Cyclones fans will see new names in 2022.
The Cyclones host the Baylor Bears in week four action in Ames, Iowa -- a Big 12 Conference opponent Iowa State narrowly lost to last year in Waco, 31-29.
Let’s take a quick look at some of the key Iowa State defensive players to watch against Baylor in week four.
DE Will McDonald IV
The biggest threat for any opposing team is likely Cyclones defensive end Will McDonald IV, a 6-4, 245-pound redshirt senior who tied for the Big 12 lead with 11.5 sacks last season -- the second straight year he has been a conference leader in the category.
He also earned All-American honors and owns the Iowa State school record with 29 sacks and counting. Last season, he started 11 of 13 games while registering 36 tackles (24 solo), 14 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, seven quarterback hurries, five forced fumbles, and three pass deflections.
WLB Gerry Vaughn
Weakside linebacker Gerry Vaughn, a 5-11, 235-pound redshirt senior, will also be a player to keep an eye on in week four action.
Vaughn appeared in 13 games (starting six) and garnered 45 tackles (16 solo), 5.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks for the Cyclones last season.
SLB Colby Reeder
Strongside linebacker Colby Reeder, a Delaware Blue Hens transfer student, will also likely be a pivotal part of the Cyclones' defense this season.
A 6-3, 235-pound redshirt senior, Reeder completed his 2021 campaign with 56 tackles (27 solo), seven tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, one interception and one pass deflection.
BS Malik Verdon
Boundary safety Malik Verdon, a 6-4, 215-pound redshirt freshman, also figures to be a key player in the secondary.
Verdon played in just two games in 2021 before securing a redshirt; in high school, he played quarterback, wide receiver and defensive back and was an all-conference and all-city selection at defensive back.
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Denton Ramsey has been a journalist for over 20 years with a decade of experience as a sports writer and editor for a plethora of newspapers throughout Texas and Alabama. Growing up in Houston and attending Baylor University, Ramsey is a die-hard sports fan with a true passion for writing. He may be reached via email at denton.itb@gmail.com