Cincinnati Bearcats Upset No. 14 Iowa State in Thrilling Showdown
In a stunning display of resilience and skill, the Cincinnati Bearcats triumphed over the No. 14 Iowa State Cyclones with a final score of 38-30 on Saturday. This victory marks a significant milestone for the Bearcats, who have not defeated a ranked opponent at home since their win against No. 16 Houston in December 2021.
A Strong Start for Cincinnati
The Bearcats (4-1, 2-0 Big 12) set the tone early in the game, scoring 17 points in the first quarter. Quarterback Brendan Sorsby showcased his talent by passing for 214 yards and throwing two touchdown passes. His standout moment came in the fourth quarter when he connected with Caleb Goodie for an impressive 82-yard touchdown pass, the longest for Cincinnati since 2015.
Running back Evan Pryor also made a significant impact, rushing for 111 yards and scoring two touchdowns. His 30-yard touchdown run opened the scoring for the Bearcats, capitalizing on a crucial offside penalty by Iowa State that extended Cincinnati’s opening drive.
Iowa State’s Comeback Efforts
Despite the early deficit, the Cyclones (5-1, 2-1) demonstrated their fighting spirit. After trailing 31-7 with just over a minute left in the second quarter, Iowa State mounted a comeback. Quarterback Rocco Becht, who passed for 314 yards and accounted for four touchdowns-two through the air and two on the ground-led the charge. Becht’s 14-yard touchdown run early in the second quarter marked the beginning of Iowa State’s resurgence.
The Cyclones continued to press, with Becht scoring again on a 4-yard run just before halftime. He then threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to Brett Eskildsen on the opening drive of the third quarter, narrowing the gap to 31-21.
Key Moments and Turning Points
The game was not without its pivotal moments. Iowa State, known for being one of the least penalized teams in the nation, struggled with discipline in the first half, committing five penalties for 35 yards. This lack of composure allowed Cincinnati to capitalize early and build a commanding lead.
As the game progressed, Iowa State’s defense, already hampered by injuries to 16 players-including key defensive backs Jeremiah Cooper and Jontez Williams-struggled to contain Cincinnati’s offensive onslaught. The absence of their top two kickers further complicated matters, forcing the Cyclones to go for it on fourth down more frequently, where they succeeded four out of seven times.
The Final Stretch
As the clock wound down, Iowa State managed to close the gap to just eight points with 1:56 remaining in the game. However, Cincinnati’s defense held firm, recovering an onside kick that effectively ended the Cyclones’ hopes of a comeback.
This victory not only boosts Cincinnati’s confidence but also solidifies their position in the Big 12 standings. The Bearcats are now in a strong position as they prepare for their next matchup against UCF, while Iowa State will look to regroup before facing Colorado next Saturday.
Historical Context
Cincinnati’s win is particularly noteworthy in the context of their recent history. The Bearcats have been striving to establish themselves as a competitive force in the Big 12 since their transition from the American Athletic Conference. This victory over a ranked opponent serves as a testament to their growth and potential in the new conference landscape.
Iowa State, on the other hand, has been a consistent contender in the Big 12, often finding themselves in the upper echelon of the conference standings. Their recent struggles, particularly with injuries, highlight the challenges that can arise in a physically demanding season.
Conclusion
The Cincinnati Bearcats’ victory over Iowa State is a significant chapter in their ongoing journey in college football. With a blend of strong offensive performances and a resilient defense, they have proven that they can compete with the best. As both teams look ahead to their upcoming games, the lessons learned from this matchup will undoubtedly shape their strategies moving forward. The Bearcats will aim to build on this momentum, while the Cyclones will seek to overcome their recent setbacks and return to form.
