Paul Rhoads, the new coach at Iowa State: “A lot of work to be done.”

What is his vision:

“Develop a championship program. That vision takes place one day at a time, one season at a time. No win-loss expectations. Challenges are that you inherent a program that has no tradition. We have one Big 12 North shared title and we are proud of that, but lack of recent success is something you need to build upon.”

Compared to 1995:

“Program is well ahead of where it was in 1995. From a facilities standpoint,  most notably our indoor facility, is well ahead. Back then we were practicing outdoors in some rough weather. The level of player in place in 1995 was minimal on what we call a Div. 1 player status. From where we are  now, we are above that  but still have to see where we are.”

On team’s attitude:

“From 10 straight losses, you’d think you’d walk into a group of young men with their heads down. I have not felt that. We don’t hide those things. We talk about the challenges we have to overcome that. I see a football team that is very hungry and a group of young men that want nothing more than to be successful.”

On winning:

“Every victory is going to be important for us. Been a long time since we had our last one. A lot of things that we have to end. Every game is critically important. A lot of folks want to talk about us and Iowa or whatever. We are worried just about Aug. 4 and opening of camp. Got a lot of kids not looking beyond that.”