Inside Iowa State’s Top PFF Performers

Big 12 play is here for the Utah Utes as they travel to Ames, Iowa, to take on the Iowa State Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium for the first time since 2010. The Cyclones enter Big 12 play riding the momentum of a dominant 55-7 win over Bowling Green. Let’s scout Iowa State and some of its top players based on PFF grades as the Utes look to remain undefeated. The Cyclones Overall The Cyclones posted a spectacular 91.7 overall grade, including a 78.4 offensive grade and an 80.8 defensive grade, with their strongest category coming in pass blocking at 92.8. Defensive end Jack Janikowski paced the entire team with a 91.1 grade across 20 snaps. The Washington State transfer posted a 90.6 run-defense grade but struggled in tackling, earning a 34.0 grade. Janikowski finished with three total tackles, including two solo stops, and forced a fumble. Through three games, he has recorded eight total tackles. Just behind Janikowski for the top spot was his fellow defensive end, Blake Hawkins. The Gretna, Nebraska, native posted an 89.7 overall defensive grade, including an 82.4 pass-rush grade and a 76.4 tackling grade. Across 16 snaps, Hawkins recorded one solo tackle and registered one quarterback pressure. Slotted third on the team in overall grade, left tackle Gabriel Greenlee posted an 87.9 mark. The hometown kid played 30 snaps, earning an impressive 83.3 run-blocking grade and a 78.4 pass-blocking grade. The 6-foot-7, 300-pound redshirt senior has posted a 76.8 overall grade through three games this season. Watch Out For This Guy Rounding out the top four as the only skill-position player was running back Aiden Flora, who posted an 87.4 overall grade with an 85.8 rushing grade. Across 24 total snaps, the Cyclones’ co-captain and redshirt sophomore put up career numbers, rushing 12 times for 194 yards and two touchdowns, including a 61-yard long. Flora also caught two passes for 10 yards. The Iowa native leads the Big 12 in rushing yards and will be a player the Utes need to keep an eye on out of the backfield. About UteZone: Take your Utah fandom to the next level by joining the ultimate community for dedicated fans at UteZone. Get exclusive insider updates, in-depth coverage, expert analysis, and connect with the most passionate Utah fans, all in one place. From breaking news and recruiting intel to premium content and member-only perks, you’ll have everything you need to stay ahead of the game. Sign up today and lock in 50% off your annual subscription. Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on X.