Iowa State vs UCF: Live Score, Stats & Highlights from ISU Game

Iowa State vs UCF: Live Score, Stats & Highlights from ISU Game

The Iowa State Cyclones and the UCF Knights face off in a thrilling Big 12 matchup that promises excitement for fans of both teams. As Iowa State looks to build on recent momentum and UCF aims to make a statement in the conference, this game is shaping up to be a pivotal contest for both programs. Follow along for live score updates, key stats, and the top highlights from the game.

First Quarter: Iowa State Starts Strong

The game opened with Iowa State’s offense coming out with purpose, as quarterback Rocco Becht led the Cyclones down the field on a carefully orchestrated drive. Using a mix of short passes and powerful runs by running back Abu Sama, the Cyclones moved into scoring position early in the quarter.

The Cyclones capitalized on their first opportunity with a 5-yard touchdown pass from Becht to wide receiver Jaylin Noel. The methodical drive gave Iowa State a 7-0 lead and set the tone for a productive start.

Key Highlight: Jaylin Noel’s precise route running and Becht’s accurate throw on the opening touchdown set the tone for Iowa State’s offensive rhythm early in the game.

UCF Responds with Explosive Plays

After Iowa State’s early score, UCF responded quickly. Quarterback John Rhys Plumlee showcased his dual-threat abilities by leading the Knights down the field. On a key third down, Plumlee broke free on a 25-yard scramble, evading defenders and igniting UCF’s offense.

The drive culminated with a 30-yard touchdown pass from Plumlee to wide receiver Kobe Hudson. Hudson made a spectacular catch in the corner of the end zone, tying the game at 7-7.

Key Highlight: Plumlee’s electrifying scramble and Hudson’s athletic touchdown grab energized UCF and quickly neutralized Iowa State’s early momentum.

Second Quarter: Defense Steps Up

As the second quarter began, both defenses started to tighten. Iowa State’s front seven, led by linebacker Caleb Bacon, applied consistent pressure on Plumlee, forcing UCF into difficult third-down situations. The Cyclones’ defense was particularly effective in stopping UCF’s running game, holding their rushing attack to minimal gains.

On the other side, UCF’s defense also stepped up, forcing Iowa State to punt on their first possession of the quarter. Knights linebacker Jason Johnson recorded a crucial sack on Becht, setting Iowa State back and ending what had looked like a promising drive.

With both teams battling for field position, the defenses dominated much of the second quarter, and neither team could find the end zone again before halftime.

Key Stat: Iowa State held UCF to just 25 rushing yards in the first half, showcasing the Cyclones’ ability to control the line of scrimmage.

Third Quarter: Cyclones Regain Momentum

Coming out of halftime, Iowa State made key adjustments and took control of the game’s tempo. Becht continued to show poise under pressure, leading the Cyclones on a drive that chewed up the clock. On a crucial fourth-down play, Iowa State converted with a 12-yard completion to tight end Tyler Moore, keeping the drive alive.

Iowa State’s offense finally broke through when running back Cartevious Norton scored on a 10-yard touchdown run, giving the Cyclones a 14-7 lead. The offensive line created a clear path for Norton, who burst through the defense untouched for the score.

Key Highlight: Norton’s touchdown run was the result of excellent blocking by Iowa State’s offensive line, which created the space needed for a clean run into the end zone.

UCF Struggles in Third Quarter

UCF’s offense sputtered in the third quarter as Iowa State’s defense continued to dominate. Plumlee was under constant duress, as Iowa State’s defensive line recorded multiple sacks and disrupted the Knights’ offensive rhythm. UCF’s attempt to establish the running game stalled, and their third-quarter drives ended in punts or turnovers.

Iowa State’s defensive end, MJ Anderson, recorded two sacks in the quarter, further cementing the Cyclones’ defensive dominance and keeping UCF off the scoreboard in the second half.

Fourth Quarter: UCF’s Last Push

Entering the fourth quarter, UCF needed a spark to mount a comeback. Plumlee began to find success in the short passing game, connecting with wide receiver Javon Baker on a series of quick slants and screens to move the ball into Cyclones’ territory.

However, the Cyclones’ defense once again came up big when it mattered most. On a crucial fourth-down attempt near the red zone, Plumlee’s pass was intercepted by Iowa State cornerback TJ Tampa, who made a diving play to secure the turnover and effectively seal the game.

Iowa State ran out the clock on their next possession, securing a hard-fought victory against a resilient UCF team.

Key Highlight: TJ Tampa’s clutch interception in the fourth quarter ended UCF’s comeback hopes, capping a standout performance by Iowa State’s defense.

Conclusion

Iowa State’s balanced attack and stellar defense helped them secure a pivotal win over UCF in a Big 12 showdown. The Cyclones’ ability to pressure Plumlee and dominate the line of scrimmage proved to be the difference in this tightly contested matchup. For UCF, despite flashes of brilliance, turnovers and a lack of consistent offensive rhythm ultimately cost them the game.

Iowa State continues to build on their recent success, while UCF will look to regroup and bounce back in their next conference game. This Big 12 battle provided plenty of excitement and showcased the talent of both programs in a hard-fought contest.