We love our cyclones

We drove to Ames today to watch our beloved Cyclones take on the Texas Longhorns. The rain came down steadily on our windshield as we drove the 90 miles south, the car filled with hope, excitment and chatter about the potential of seeing a good football game. We arrived at the parking lot amongst the other tailgaters ... the bright yellow and red colors of our Cyclone team could be seen everywhere. We proceeded to get our umbrellas and ponchos. Maybe the sun will shine. Or maybe the drizzle will at least stop. I'm forever an optimist. I just can't help it. The first quarter was filled with fun and games with the band, the announcer, the rest of the fans in the stands all singing along with silly songs and crowd games. The ISU players definitely had a fight in them. They played with enthusiasm and energy. But it was short-lived. It turned out to be one of the worst football games I have ever watched. We lost, 56-3. It was an embarassment. We left during the 3rd quarter, with our heads down and our tempers flaring. It took me awhile to cool off, because it was such sloppy football. But later, I was able to shake my head and remember what we have been saying for months... this would be a tough year. We have a new coach. It's a new program. But in this moment, it feels like we have taken 10 steps back. That doesn't really matter in the long run, I guess. It's the beginning of a new program. Besides, we still love our Cyclones. We just can't help it.