Iowa State Football: Breaking Down the Cyclones' Offense in 2011

The Iowa State Cyclones came up just short of making a bowl game in 2010. Finishing the year 5-7, the Cyclones hope to finally get over the hurdle and make it to a bowl game.

Here, I will go through position by position and grade each unit of the offense. From the quarterback to the offensive linemen, each unit is equally important in assuring a successful 2011 campaign.

Overall Offense: C+

The Cyclones return five starters and have numerous position battles in camp this summer.

With no one star on offense, this unit will collectively need work hard this offseason to improve from a disappointing 2010 season.

Expect this unit to take a step forward in 2011.

Quarterback: C

Welcome to the battle for the starting quarterback.

Jerome Tiller will battle it out with JUCO transfer Steele Jantz for the starting spot. Both are capable replacements for Austen Arnaud, who struggled throughout the entire 2010 season. 

Running Backs: B-

The Cyclones are just full of position battles. Sophomores Shontrelle Robinson and Jeff Woody will battle it out in camp for the starter to replace phenomenal runner Alexander Robinson.

Thunder and lighting will be an 1a and 1b tandem sharing reps all season.

Wide Receivers and Tight Ends: C+

Darius Darks returns for his senior season and heads up a decent group of receivers.

Also back is starter Darius Reynolds and Sedrick Johnson to replace Collin Franklin.

No one player will explode in 2011, but collectively this unit should hold its own.

Offensive Line: B-

The Cyclones bring back four out of five linemen and feature three starting seniors.

Last year, the line almost produced a 1,000-yard rusher, and the running game again looks to be the staple of the offense.

Being one of the most veteran lines in the new-look Big 12, the Cyclones should be decent offensively in 2011. They do need to reduce the number of sacks they give up, though.