The Iowa State Cyclones put on a dazzling display of creativity and dominance Saturday night, steamrolling the Arizona Wildcats 39-14 in Ames and sending a clear message to the rest of the Big 12: this team is for real.
Cyclones Dazzle on "White Out" Night
Jack Trice Stadium was electric as No. 14 Iowa State celebrated its annual "White Out" game, and the Cyclones gave their fans plenty to cheer about. Quarterback
Rocco Becht was the star of the night, punching in three short rushing touchdowns and throwing for 243 yards on an efficient 14-of-20 passing. While his impressive streak of 22 straight games with a touchdown pass ended, Becht’s command of the offense was never in doubt.
The Cyclones (5-0, 2-0 Big 12) wasted no time asserting themselves. After a quick Arizona three-and-out, Iowa State marched down the field, capped by Becht’s first 1-yard plunge. The Cyclones then surprised everyone with a direct snap to tight end Gabe Burkle for a two-point conversion, setting the tone for a night full of inventive play-calling.
Trick Plays and Turnovers Fuel Iowa State
Head coach Matt Campbell dipped deep into his bag of tricks, including a 45-yard pass from tight end Ben Brahmer to Brett Eskildsen that set up another Cyclone touchdown. The defense was just as opportunistic, with Jontez Williams and Jamison Patton each snagging interceptions. Williams’ 42-yard return set up a short field and another Iowa State score.
Punter Tyler Perkins was a hidden hero, pinning Arizona deep in their own territory multiple times and helping the Cyclones control field position all night.
Arizona’s Offense Stalls Against Stout Cyclone Defense
Arizona (3-1, 0-1 Big 12) entered the game boasting the nation’s top pass efficiency defense, but the Wildcats struggled to slow down Iowa State’s balanced attack. Quarterback
Noah Fifita threw for 253 yards and two touchdowns, but also tossed two costly interceptions. The Wildcats managed just one touchdown in each half, never seriously threatening to close the gap.
Arizona’s lone bright spot came late in the first half, when Fifita connected with Kris Hutson for a 9-yard score. But by then, the Cyclones already led 22-7 and never looked back.
What This Means for the Big 12 Race
With the win, Iowa State remains undefeated and firmly in the hunt for a Big 12 title, while Arizona faces a tough road ahead in its first season as a conference member. The Cyclones’ creative offense and opportunistic defense make them a team to watch as the season heats up.
Arizona will look to regroup at home next week against Oklahoma State, while Iowa State hits the road for back-to-back games at Cincinnati and Colorado.
Key Takeaways
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Iowa State’s offense is more than just Becht’s arm—their trick plays and ground game are legitimate weapons.
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Arizona’s defense, previously a strength, was exposed by Iowa State’s creativity and execution.
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The Cyclones’ defense continues to generate turnovers, a trend that could carry them deep into the season.
The Big 12 just got a little more interesting, and Iowa State’s statement win has everyone paying attention.
Sources
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9. Cyclones take down Arizona, Hawkeyes outlasted by Indiana (Sept ...
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