Iowa State edges West Virginia in a wild, high-stakes 45-42 shootout.
AMES, Iowa - Iowa State was able to do it once again, giving people flashbacks to 2018. Iowa State took down the Mountaineers last Saturday with a final score of 45-42. It was an insane game played at Jack Trice Stadium. Both teams traded many blows throughout the game. The Cyclones came away with a huge win after many mistakes and falling behind. Once again, Iowa State proved they can come out and dominate on their home field. After last Saturday, there's no doubt every person at Jack Trice left in awe of how each team could keep scoring points at the end.
The Mountaineers had the Cyclones on their heels early on in this game. West Virginia was able to exploit Iowa State and create an early lead. Led by Michael Hawkins Jr the Mountaineers took over early. Michael Hawkins rushed for 149 yards and 2 touchdowns. Not only could he run, but he had some big targets to throw the ball to. DJ Epps was able to gain 114 yards on the air and scored as well. The Mountaineers would continue to outplay Iowa State for the majority of the first half. With many mistakes, Iowa State couldn't find their groove against West Virginia's defensive line.
After many points were scored by both teams, it appeared as if West Virginia would pull away. That's where Aiden Flora stepped up and gave one of the greatest performances we have seen at Iowa State. Flora had an amazing game with 212 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns on the ground. He was even able to throw for 2 touchdowns as well. Iowa State's quarterback Jaylen Raynor was throwing the ball all day long. He threw for 264 yards and a touchdown. Raynor found many receivers but mainly focused on Cody Jackson. Jackson was able to catch the ball 6 times for 160 yards and a touchdown.
This was no doubt a back-and-forth football game. Each team seemed to be in each other's territory. Once the clock started ticking down, Iowa State started playing defense. They were able to shut down West Virginia's running backs on multiple 3rd downs and got key stops. With a successful field goal from Kyle Konrardy and many yards gained on the ground, the Cyclones took control.
Iowa State had a great game. With their ability to come back and their explosive offense, they were able to come away with a huge win on their home field. Iowa State will carry that momentum into conference play next week at BYU. As for West Virginia, they are now 0-2 in conference play and have much to learn from the Cyclones as they head back home.
Image Credit: Iowa State Daily
