A source close to the Iowa State football team has told the Tribune the Cyclone players are "irate" coach Gene Chizik is leaving to become the head coach at Auburn.

The source said several Cyclones came to ISU to play specifically for Chizik and don't understand how Chizik could leave for another school.

Senior offensive tackle Doug Dedrick was shocked when he heard the news and said his heart goes out to the returning players.

"I understand why he did what he did," Dedrick said. "Coach Chiz really is a very good guy. I've got nothing negative to say about him. My reaction to this is I feel really bad for the players, the current team. I think Chiz could have done great things here, but he did what he had to do. It's his decision."