What's Happening?
The Iowa State Cyclones, ranked No. 22, delivered a commanding performance against the South Dakota Coyotes, securing a 55-7 victory at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa. Quarterback Rocco Becht was instrumental in the win, completing 19 of 20 passes for 278 yards and three touchdowns, setting a school record with a 95% completion rate. Becht also extended his streak of games with a touchdown pass to 20. The Cyclones' offense was further bolstered by Benjamin Brahmer, who caught seven passes for 47 yards and two touchdowns, and Gabe Burkle, who added 85 yards and a touchdown. Iowa State's defense limited South Dakota to 209 total yards, while the Cyclones amassed 529 yards. The game was tied at 7-7 before Iowa State scored 48 unanswered points to seal the victory.
Why It's Important?
This victory underscores Iowa State's strong start to the season, following their initial win in Ireland. The Cyclones' performance highlights their offensive prowess and depth, with multiple players contributing to the scoring. Rocco Becht's record-setting day not only boosts his confidence but also sets a high standard for the team's quarterback play. The win solidifies Iowa State's position in the rankings and demonstrates their potential to compete at a high level throughout the season. For South Dakota, the game serves as a learning experience, particularly for quarterback Aidan Bouman, who faced his former team and struggled against a formidable defense.
What's Next?
Iowa State will look to maintain their momentum as they continue their season, aiming to climb higher in the rankings and secure a strong position for postseason play. The team's next games will be crucial in testing their consistency and ability to perform against tougher opponents. South Dakota will need to regroup and address the challenges faced in this game, focusing on improving their offensive execution and defensive resilience in upcoming matches.
