AMES, Iowa — Taylor Mouser, the offensive coordinator for Iowa State’s football team, was deep in thought as he scoured through the files on his computer in his office at the team’s facility. He was on a mission to find the practice tape that marked the beginning of a remarkable journey.
That journey belonged to Brock Purdy, the former Cyclones quarterback who has now risen to stardom as the leader of the San Francisco 49ers. After an outstanding season in the NFL, where he dominated in efficiency and even made a run at the MVP title, Purdy’s future is bright with the possibility of securing a lucrative contract.
But rewind six years back, and Purdy was just a third-string true freshman trying to make his mark during his first college training camp. Mouser reflected on Purdy’s rapid rise in 2018, when he stumbled upon a practice play that showcased the young quarterback’s potential.
In that memorable moment, Purdy, sporting jersey No. 15, faced off against defensive end JaQuan Bailey, a standout who would later earn All-Big-12 honors. Despite Bailey’s prowess, Purdy executed a fake pitch that left the defender guessing, creating an opening for him to score.
The feat left everyone on the practice field, including head coach Matt Campbell, awestruck. Campbell described it as a “wow” moment, emphasizing Purdy’s ability to outmaneuver opponents with precision and finesse.
“Brock totally transcended our football program,” Campbell remarked. “We were on the rise, but his impact was transformative. He showed us what it truly takes to win consistently, turning belief into action every day.”
A stroll through the quaint college town of Ames, with its modest population, reveals lingering traces of Purdy’s legacy. A signed 49ers jersey adorns the walls of a local sports bar, alongside the iconic No. 16 jersey of Joe Montana. However, reminders of Purdy’s college days, marked by jersey No. 15, are primarily confined to the walls of Iowa State’s football facility.
Kyle Kempt, an offensive assistant and former Cyclones quarterback, reflected on the culture that defined the team during Purdy’s time. “Ames, Iowa, is a special place,” he said. “We didn’t have flashy facilities or big-city appeal. Our strength was in the bond we shared as a team, fueled by Coach Campbell’s vision.”
Kempt emphasized the importance of recruiting players like Purdy, who embodied the values of hard work and dedication that defined Iowa State’s football program. Despite not being the most talented team in the league, the Cyclones relied on their strong locker room culture to compete against powerhouses like Oklahoma and Texas.
As Purdy’s journey continues in the NFL, his impact on Iowa State and its football program remains indelible. From humble beginnings as a freshman sensation to a rising star in professional football, Purdy’s legacy is etched in the hearts of those who witnessed his meteoric rise.
