2018 lineman learning about ISU

Since Iowa State became the first program at any level to offer him a scholarship earlier this month, a West Des Moines (Iowa) Dowling Catholic offensive lineman has spent time learning more about the program.

Maroon junior guard Zach Ross was on campus Saturday for the spring game, and also traveled to Ames during the spring for practice. The 6-foot-4, 280-pound big man says the early returns are good.

“I feel like it’s going to turn around and the new coaching staff is going to turn things around and make them better,” said Ross. “I like the Iowa State program. The coaches did great things at Toledo, so I think they’re going to win a lot of games at Iowa State.”

Of particular interest to Ross was the offensive line and how Coach Tom Manning worked with the group in practices.

“The practices were very organized and it was fun going up there to watch,” Ross said. “Coach Manning was the best offensive line coach in the nation last year, so I like him. He’s just told me to continue being physical and showing myself on the field.”

During one of his trips to Ames this spring, Ross spent time around the offensive line group and in meetings.

“I liked how their offensive line worked together as a team and was very physical,” he said. “I stood on the field and watched them do the drills, then the defense versus offense scrimmage and was in the offensive line room. I’ve never been a room like that, so it was unique being in there and listening to them talk. I got a sense for how much more difficult it will be at the next level with the calls they do.”

Much of Ross’ interactions via social media and over the phone have been with I-State Director of High School Relations Mitch Moore.

“I call him every Thursday and talk to him to see how it’s going,” Ross said. “He’s been my main recruiter throughout the process.”

The next trips for Ross to Ames figure to be over the summer for a pair of Cyclone camps. The rising junior says he’ll be on campus for the Big Man and Friday Night Lights camps. Ross is also planning stops at Iowa, Nebraska, Notre Dame and Wisconsin.