Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht has rapidly ascended as a pivotal figure in the Big 12 Conference, exemplifying leadership and resilience both on and off the field. His recent participation in the Big 12 Football Media Days, powered by Microsoft Copilot, provided a platform to reflect on his journey and outline his aspirations for the upcoming season.
Early Career and Breakthrough Season
Becht's collegiate journey began at Iowa State in 2022, where he appeared in three games, completing seven of 13 passes for 65 yards. Opting to redshirt that year, he honed his skills and prepared for a more significant role. The 2023 season marked his emergence as the Cyclones' starting quarterback. Becht's performance was nothing short of remarkable; he completed 63.5% of his passes, amassing 2,674 yards and 20 touchdowns. His efforts were instrumental in transforming the team's record from a single conference win in 2022 to six in 2023. This impressive turnaround earned him the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year award, making him the first Iowa State quarterback to receive this honor since 2019. (cyclones.com)
Leadership and Development
Beyond his statistical achievements, Becht's leadership qualities have been a cornerstone of his impact. Head coach Matt Campbell has lauded Becht's maturity and self-awareness, noting that his character fosters authentic growth and garners the respect of his teammates. (on3.com) Becht himself emphasizes the importance of leadership, both on and off the field, striving to emulate the exemplary figures within the team. (cyclonefanatic.com)
2024 Season Highlights
The 2024 season further solidified Becht's status as a formidable quarterback. He threw for 3,505 yards and 25 touchdowns, ranking among the top 20 nationally in both categories. His performance was pivotal in leading Iowa State to an 11-win season, the best in the program's history. (cyclonefanatic.com) Notably, Becht's clutch performances included four come-from-behind victories, showcasing his poise under pressure. (coacheshotseat.com)
Big 12 Championship and Bowl Game
Becht's leadership was on full display during the Big 12 Championship Game against Arizona State. Despite a challenging 45-19 loss, he threw for 214 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. (en.wikipedia.org) Undeterred, Becht led the Cyclones to a thrilling victory in the Pop-Tarts Bowl against Miami. His game-winning touchdown run with 56 seconds remaining secured a 42-41 comeback win, earning him the MVP title. (en.wikipedia.org)
Looking Ahead
As Becht prepares for the 2025 season, his focus remains on enhancing his leadership and refining his skills. He is committed to fostering a culture of excellence within the team, emphasizing the importance of preparation and resilience. With his unwavering dedication and proven track record, Becht is poised to lead Iowa State to new heights in the competitive landscape of college football.
Rocco Becht's journey from a redshirt freshman to a celebrated leader in the Big 12 underscores the transformative power of perseverance and character. His story serves as an inspiration, not only to his teammates but to aspiring athletes nationwide.
Source: YouTube
