Iowa State recruits Washington State coach Jimmy Rogers to succeed Matt Campbell

Iowa State swiftly named Jimmy Rogers as its new head coach shortly after news broke that Matt Campbell had agreed to take over at Penn State. The university confirmed Rogers arrival even before Penn State formally introduced Campbell.

Rogers, who guided Washington State to a 66 finish in 2025, steps into the role after navigating significant challenges with the Cougars. Since the Pac-12 dissolved following the 2023 season, Washington State and Oregon State have competed without a permanent conference home, traveling nationwide and even facing each other twice this year.

In a statement, athletic director Jamie Pollard praised Rogers as an emerging leader with deep Midwest connections. Pollard noted that Rogers had expressed interest in leading the Cyclones years earlier and emphasized his work ethic, competitive record, and alignment with Iowa States values.

Before joining Washington State, the 38-year-old spent two seasons as head coach at South Dakota State, achieving a perfect 150 championship run in 2023 and a 123 semifinal appearance in 2024. A former Jackrabbits linebacker, he previously spent a decade on the coaching staff as a defensive assistant, defensive coordinator, and associate head coach.

Rogers enters an Iowa State program shaped by the success of Campbell, who won a school-record 72 games over 10 seasons. The Cyclones posted eight winning seasons during his tenure, including an 11-win campaign in 2024 and a trip to the Big 12 title game last year.

Author: Natalie Monroe