On one hand, Cyclone Football stands at the border of Undiscovered Country, a level of national respect that few expected Iowa State would ever see. An Over/Under win total of 9.5 was unimaginable a few years ago. ISU tossed around as a possible Playoff team, which means a puncher's chance at a Natty. Insane stuff for a fan base that puts the Suffering in Long-Suffering.
On the other hand, the potential for an epic prat fall on the national stage will crank the anxiety of many a Cyclone fan. There have been other claims of arrival at the Big Time, only to crash in the moment. Anyone fearing the drop of the other shoe would be forgiven.
But given that we have never been to this place as a fan base, enjoying the ride is the best path to take. Wearing your nut cup all summer will make it difficult to enjoy the peaks, as clouds of doubt will always shadow the moment. Breathe the anticipation deeply, as it will fuel the celebration if the impossible arrives.
And if the unthinkable happens, focus on the journey we have made as a community, rather than any perceived fall.
