For Iowa State linebacker Caleb Bacon the anticipation is even higher heading into his senior season. The former walk-on from Lake Mills entered the 2024 season as a starter but suffered a knee injury on special teams in a season opening victory over North Dakota and was lost for the season.

Bacon says the injury forced him to be more of a leader away from the field.

Bacon is excited for the upcoming season.

Bacon says there has been a sense of urgency in fall camp. ISU opens August 23rd in Dublin, Ireland, against Kansas State.

Bacon finished second on the team in tackles in 2023.