You realize you just got all ****** off agreeing with me, right?
I pretty much stated the reason that Iowa is in the position they are is becasue of the fan support they've had over the course of the last 50-60 years (less the 60's & early 70's), and that is a direct result of winning.
My point is (as you seem to reiterate), until ISU's fan base becomes more supportive or the team starts winning at a much higher level consistently (which will result in greater fan support), ISU won't be able to get to the same level as Iowa.
The problem for ISU, though, is that just winning doesn't result in donations - consistent winning over the long term might, but that isn't guaranteed either. The problem for ISU is that a largerportion of the state already supports the Hawks, so ISU needs their current fan base to be the ones supporting the program more vehmently (via donations, ticket purchases, etc.), unless you think ISU can convert some hawk fans.
Winning doesn't do it alone - fan support fills seats, making it easier to recruit, and generates donations that build facilities, which also makes it easier to recruit. Recruiting determines success in college football, and recruiting is largely linked to facilities, fan support, coaching, & geography. ISU/Iowa can't win with geography (more often than not), so you have to recruit with facilities, fan support, & coaching.
I think we agree, right? Unless I misunderstood you somewhere.