Paul Rhoads could create a moment. His energy, his passion flowing out during press conferences could mesmerize. His team’s play, rooted in blue collar values and the occasional trick play, could draw in even the most casual fan, especially when the Cyclones were on the hunt for a Top 25 upset.
It was the best thing to happen to ISU football in years. It became the worst thing for him. Rhoads built the Cyclones into the physical embodiment of nearly everything that makes college football special, but it couldn’t be sustained and it’s why he is out as coach on Sunday, according to a source.