Iowa State safety Jeremiah Cooper is off to an impressive start to the season. The native of El Paso, Texas is tied for the national lead with three interceptions and returned one for a touchdown in a season opening win over UNI.

He says the fast start has boosted his confidence.

Cooper appeared in nine games as a true freshman and the experience he gained is paying off.

Cooper missed the final three games of last season with a hamstring injury.

The Cyclones player their first road game on Saturday at Ohio.

Ohio has many of the same players who were part of Iowa State’s 43-10 win in Ames last year.