The Cyclones are averaging 24.2 points per game and holding teams to 14 points. Punter Kirby Van Der Kamp has pulled in national accolades this season for his performance.
Jake Knott and A.J. Klein, linebackers, seniors
Jake Knott leads the Cyclones with 31 tackles on the season. A.J. Klein is next on the team with 30. Klein recorded 10 tackles against Texas Tech along with a 87-yard interception return for a touchdown. Klein has four career interception returns for touchdowns. Knott had nine tackles along with a pass breakup and a quarterback hurry last week. The preseason All-Big 12 First Team selections are tied for the longest starting streak among active Cyclone players at 29 games.
Kirby Van Der Kamp, punter, junior
Kirby Van Der Camp averaged 49.3 yards per punt last week against Texas Tech. He has been named Big 12 Punter of the Week and National Punter of the Week on two separate occasions this season. The West Des Moines, Iowa native’s 43.8 career punt average is the best in Iowa State history. He is on the Ray Guy Award Watch List for the nation’s best punter. If the offenses struggle, field position will become a key, and Van Der Kamp could make a big difference.
James White, running back, junior
James White leads the Cyclones with 82.5 all-purpose yards per game. He has picked up 211 rushing yards on 32 attempts. He broke a season-long 56-yard run against Western Illinois. White also ranks third on the team with 14 receptions for 119 yards. The Dallas native is on the Doak Walker Award Watch List.