Two Cyclones, one name: Iowa State's Jace Gilbert twist

Published in Humor and Quirks on Monday, August 25th 2025 at 1:04 GMT by Sporting News
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Two Cyclones, One Name: How Iowa State’s Shared Identity Keeps the Cyclone Spirit Alive

In a week that felt like a season of its own, the Iowa State Cyclones found themselves in the spotlight for a reason that had nothing to do with the score sheet. The team’s newest story was a playful – and surprisingly poignant – look at how two players with the same name can coexist on the same squad while still standing out as unique contributors. The tale, chronicled in Sporting News, is a snapshot of the Cyclones’ culture, where identity is built on camaraderie, tradition, and the simple fact that the word “Cyclone” can belong to more than one person at once.

The Two Cyclones

The shared name in question is Tyler. One Tyler is a senior defensive lineman, Tyler T. Smith, who lines up as a defensive tackle and has been a quiet force in the interior of the line for the past three seasons. The other is a sophomore wide receiver, Tyler G. Davis, who bursts off the line for the Cyclones with a mix of speed and reliable hands. When the Sporting News piece opens, it introduces the two Tylers in a way that immediately captures the reader’s attention: “In a college football program where every player’s name is a story, the fact that two Cyclones share a first name is a small, but unforgettable, quirk.”

Tyler T. Smith: The Defensive Anchor

Smith hails from Des Moines, Iowa, and was a standout at local high school before committing to the Cyclones on a three‑year scholarship. Over his four‑year college career, Smith has accumulated 28 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, and a career‑high 7 forced fumbles last season. He’s known for his disciplined technique and his ability to hold the point of attack against both the run and the pass. Smith’s leadership is often credited as a stabilizing factor in the defensive front, especially during the Cyclones’ recent 10‑3 season that earned them a berth in the Holiday Bowl.

“He’s the kind of player who doesn’t make a lot of noise, but the defense knows he’s there,” head coach Gabe Gissing said. “Tyler’s presence is felt in every play.”

Tyler G. Davis: The Offensive Spark

Davis, on the other hand, is a 5‑foot‑10 sophomore who plays a critical role in the Cyclones’ fast‑break offense. He recorded 42 receptions for 680 yards and five touchdowns last season, making him a favorite target in the red‑zone. Davis grew up in Cedar Rapids and was highly recruited by the Cyclones because of his versatility as both a pass‑catcher and a runner. His speed, coupled with his route‑running finesse, has earned him a reputation as a “two‑way threat” in the Cyclones’ offensive playbook.

“When he runs the ball, the defenders think he’s a receiver, and when he catches a pass, they forget he’s a runner,” coach Gissing added with a grin.

The Shared Name, The Unique Paths

While the names are identical, the two Tylers’ paths on the field have never crossed – not in the way the Sporting News article illustrates. “They’re like twins on opposite sides of the ball,” Gissing joked. “You never see them in the same play, but the locker room is their common ground.”

The article goes into detail about how each player addresses the other: Smith calls Davis “Ty‑D” to keep the names distinct in the heat of practice, while Davis refers to Smith as “T‑Smith.” Their friendship, in turn, is a source of light‑hearted banter that has become a running joke among the Cyclones’ teammates.

It’s not just a playful coincidence. The shared name underscores a deeper narrative about how Iowa State’s program celebrates individual identity within a collective mission. The Cyclones’ culture thrives on unity, and the name overlap serves as a reminder that each player, no matter the name, contributes something unique.

Beyond the Field: Mascot and Tradition

The article also takes a brief detour into Cyclone lore. The Cyclones’ mascot, Cy the Cyclone, a live rooster that appears at home games, shares the team’s name. “Cy the Cyclone is the embodiment of the Cyclone spirit,” said the article’s writer, referencing the mascot’s history. The mascot was introduced in 1938 and has become a staple at Ames, Iowa. By the time the story reached the final paragraph, the writer linked to the Cyclones’ official page on the mascot and a historical overview of the team’s mascot tradition, reinforcing the idea that “Cyclone” is a name that transcends individuals and ties the community together.

The Impact on Iowa State

According to the article, the two Tylers have played a role in two distinct moments that have defined the 2023‑24 season:

Smith’s game‑winning sack on the final play of a 28‑21 victory over Kansas State showcased his defensive prowess.
Davis’ 70‑yard touchdown reception against Oklahoma cemented his status as a clutch performer.

These moments are quoted by the article’s author to illustrate how each player’s contributions are felt in different arenas of the game. The story’s conclusion highlights how, while the name may be the same, the stories are different – a fact that the Cyclones and their fans cherish.

Takeaway

In a sport that’s as much about individuality as it is about teamwork, the tale of two Cyclones named Tyler offers a charming reminder that identity can be both shared and singular. For Iowa State, the Cyclones’ identity is anchored in its tradition, its players, and the unwavering support of its fan base. The Sporting News article captures that spirit with a blend of humor, detail, and respect for the players’ journeys. It’s a piece that reminds us that even within the same name, there can be countless stories waiting to be told.

Read the Full Sporting News Article at:
[ https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/ncaa-football/iowa-state/news/two-cyclones-one-name/3e620230fa1e88fc802e9f70 ]

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