Houston, TX
Sep 28, 2024
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No. 18 Iowa State put on a defensive clinic against the Houston Cougars, winning 20-0 in Houston's TDECU Stadium. The Cyclones' defense was unyielding, holding Houston to just 241 total yards and a mere 72 passing yards. An interception-laden performance from the Iowa State defensive backs crushed any potential momentum for the Cougars. Despite some offensive struggles, Rocco Becht's 12-yard pass to Jayden Higgins and Abu Sama III's electrifying 77-yard rushing touchdown punctuated a steady Cyclone win.
Houston's offense, ripe with penalties, unraveled under Iowa State's defensive pressure, hitting rock bottom with back-to-back shutouts for the first time since 1994. Iowa State's victory marked their first 4-0 start since 2000 and cemented Coach Matt Campbell as the school's all-time victory leader with 57 wins. As the Cyclones gear up for Baylor, their elite third-down defense and newfound offensive balance promise more challenges for future opponents.
Kyle Konrardy (Iowa State)
Kyle Konrardy set the tone early with a 23-yard field goal, capping off an 11-play, 65-yard drive, showcasing Iowa State's early dominance.
Rocco Becht (Iowa State)
Rocco Becht delivered a pinpoint 12-yard touchdown strike to Jayden Higgins, advancing the Cyclones to a 10-0 lead at a crucial juncture.
Jacob Ellis (Iowa State)
Jacob Ellis capitalized on Malik Verdon's forced fumble by pouncing on the loose ball, halting a potent Houston advance deep in Cyclone territory.
Abu Sama III (Iowa State)
Abu Sama shattered Houston's comeback hopes with a breathtaking 77-yard dash for a touchdown, demonstrating his explosive speed and agility.
Jontez Williams (Iowa State)
Jontez Williams etched his name with a game-sealing interception in the end zone, extinguishing Houston's final scoring opportunity.
Jeremiah Cooper (Iowa State)
Jeremiah Cooper solidified the shutout with a crucial interception on a fourth-and-long, reclaiming possession for Iowa State and ensuring victory.
Rocco Becht (Iowa State, QB)
Displayed poise under pressure, passing for 153 yards with a touchdown and managing the Cyclone offense through critical situations.
Abu Sama III (Iowa State, RB)
Showcased exceptional burst and field vision in a pivotal 77-yard touchdown run, amassing 101 rushing yards overall and providing offensive spark.
Kyle Konrardy (Iowa State, K)
Converted field goals of 23 and 34 yards, providing Iowa State with an early lead and steadying offensive nerves at crucial moments.
Jontez Williams (Iowa State, DB)
Crucial interception near the end zone thwarted Houston's scoring efforts, adding to a resolute defensive performance.
Jeremiah Cooper (Iowa State, DB)
Intercepted a desperation pass late in the fourth quarter, sealing the Cyclones' defensive prowess and ensuring the shutout.
Iowa State Cyclones
3
0
7
10
20
Houston Texans
0
0
0
0
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