Photo: Ron Jenkins / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
The Iowa State Cyclones secured a thrilling 20-17 victory over TCU on Saturday (November 8) in Fort Worth, Texas. The win snapped a four-game losing streak for the Cyclones and marked their second road victory of the season. Iowa State, now 6-4 overall and 3-4 in the Big 12 Conference, clinched bowl eligibility with this win.
For much of the game, the Cyclones struggled offensively, managing only 272 total yards compared to TCU's 432. However, they turned the tide in the fourth quarter. Trailing 17-6, Iowa State's Carson Hansen scored a one-yard rushing touchdown, capping an 11-play, 75-yard drive to cut the deficit. Shortly after, Aiden Flora delivered a game-changing 79-yard punt return for a touchdown, putting the Cyclones ahead 20-17 with just over six minutes left in the game.
The Cyclones' defense played a crucial role in the victory, forcing three turnovers, including interceptions by Tre Bell and Josh Patterson. Bell also forced a fumble that helped Iowa State maintain their lead late in the game. Despite TCU's offensive efforts, including a 92-yard drive resulting in a touchdown by Trent Battle, the Horned Frogs couldn't overcome the Cyclones' late surge.
The victory was significant for Iowa State's head coach Matt Campbell, who moved up in the Big 12 Conference history books with the win. The Cyclones will have a bye next week before facing Kansas at home on November 22.