Cincinnati Defeats Iowa State 38-30, Secures Key Victory in Big 12

What's Happening?

Cincinnati Bearcats secured a significant victory over No. 14 Iowa State with a 38-30 win, marking their first home victory against a ranked opponent since 2021. The Bearcats, now 4-1 overall and 2-0 in the Big 12, were led by quarterback Brendan Sorsby, who passed for 214 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Evan Pryor contributed significantly with 111 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The Bearcats established a strong lead early, ending the first quarter 17-0. Despite a rally from Iowa State, Cincinnati maintained their lead, aided by a crucial 82-yard touchdown pass from Sorsby to Caleb Goodie in the fourth quarter. Iowa State's Rocco Becht threw for 314 yards and two touchdowns, but the Cyclones' efforts fell short as Cincinnati recovered an onside kick to secure the win.

Why It's Important?

This victory is pivotal for Cincinnati as it boosts their standing in the Big 12 and enhances their prospects for recognition in the AP poll. The win demonstrates the Bearcats' ability to compete against ranked teams, potentially influencing their future matchups and bowl game considerations. For Iowa State, the loss highlights challenges, particularly with injuries affecting key players, which could impact their performance in upcoming games. The outcome of this game could have broader implications for the Big 12 standings and postseason opportunities for both teams.

What's Next?

Cincinnati will host UCF next Saturday, aiming to continue their winning streak and strengthen their position in the Big 12. Iowa State, dealing with injuries, will visit Colorado, seeking to recover from this loss and improve their conference record. Both teams will need to strategize effectively to address their respective challenges and capitalize on their strengths in the upcoming games.