Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin

New Iowa State coach Paul Rhoads worried about his team’s tackling fundamentals coming into its first game of the season.

Those fears have come apparently with good reason as the Cyclones have struggled at times defensively, but maintain a 17-10 halftime lead over North Dakota State.

The Cyclones have been gashed for 141 rushing yards and 8.3 yards per rush in the first half by the FCS Bison. North Dakota State has outgained the Cyclones, 233-221.

The difference came late in the first quarter when North Dakota State quarterback Nick Mertens fumbled at the ISU 1. The ball was recovered by Josh Raven in the end zone for a touchback as the Cyclones dodged a huge bullet.

The Cyclones have been without sideline communications with their usual headsets.

“I hate to see our cell phone bills after this,” Rhoads told the Iowa State radio network after the first half. “To get 17 points and do it on a cell phone is pretty impressive.”

Now, if the Cyclones could play better defensive fundamentals, the defensive-minded Rhoads would be that much happier.