Cyclones Lose Leading Tackler Jake Knott For Remainder Of Season

Iowa State had the right to claim they had the best linebacker duo in the Big 12. Seniors Jake Knott and AJ Klein are the team's top two tacklers, with the next closest person being fifteen tackles behind. The claim was even further advanced by Knott being named as the conference's Defensive Player of the Week after recording 11 tackles and a forced fumble in the Cyclones' 35-21 win over Baylor last Saturday.

However, on the heels of the announcement of Knott's award came the news that the star linebacker had also suffered a shoulder injury in the game which will require season-ending surgery. Credit Knott for playing through the pain and having a stellar game. However the loss is huge to the Cyclones, who rely heavily on their defense to keep balance for a struggling offense.

Knott's 79 total tackles are a team high, he also shares the team lead in tackles for loss (6), and has two interceptions to his credit as well. Jevohn Miller will replace Knott on defense which means the Cyclones are going from a senior with 79 take downs to s sophomore with six.

For more on Knott and the Iowa State Cyclones, visit SBN's WRNL