Iowa State’s O’ Rien Vance says he learned to become a leader while battling numerous injuries last season. The linebacker from Cedar Rapids took advantage of his COVID year to return for a sixth season and leads a linebacking unit that will feature several new faces.

Vance says he tried to stay positive despite the injuries.

Vance says the linebacking corps was motivated this spring to overcome the loss of players like Mike Rose.

Vance says it is a young but talented group.

The Cyclones open next season at home on September third against Southeast Missouri.