Sophomore safety Marcus Neal looks to take his game to the next level this upcoming season at Iowa State. The native of Kansas City appeared in 13 games as a true freshman and expects to be slotted at the star position for next season.

Neal stepped in for senior Beau Freyler in the Pop Tarts Bowl and responded with eight tackles in a victory over Miami.

Neal says Freyler’s leadership will be tough to replace.

Neal says getting on the field as a freshman has him prepared for next season.

The Cyclones open on August 23rd in Dublin, Ireland, against Kansas State.