TCU Falls To Iowa State
Game Overview
TCU, coming off a seven-game home winning streak, appeared in control through much of the contest, outgaining Iowa State 432-272 in total offense and building a 17-6 lead early in the fourth quarter. However, costly turnovers and a game-changing special teams play from Iowa State reversed their fortunes in the closing minutes. Iowa State’s Carson Hansen capped off an 11-play, 75-yard drive with a short touchdown run to narrow the deficit, setting the stage for a pivotal moment.
Key Plays and Turning Points
The most consequential play came with just over six minutes remaining: Cyclones’ Aiden Flora returned a punt 79 yards for a touchdown, marking Iowa State’s first punt return TD since 2017. Following a successful two-point conversion by Hansen, Iowa State seized the lead, 20-17. On TCU’s final drive, running back Jeremy Payne was stripped of the ball by Tre Bell, and Iowa State recovered the fumble deep in their own territory, thwarting TCU’s comeback hopes.
Statistical Highlights
Despite their loss, TCU quarterback Josh Hoover threw for 319 yards, while receivers Eric McAlister and Jordan Dwyer each logged 10+ catches—the first time two Frogs receivers have done so in the same game since 2001. Payne averaged nearly nine yards per carry before his critical fumble. Defensively, Iowa State forced three turnovers, including two interceptions and Bell’s late forced fumble. Hansen’s 108-yard rushing performance marked his third consecutive game surpassing the century mark.
Implications
The defeat significantly dented TCU’s Big 12 title hopes and ended their home win streak dating back over a year. For Iowa State, the victory clinched postseason eligibility for the eighth time in Matt Campbell’s 10-year tenure and elevated him to fifth on the all-time Big 12 wins list. The Cyclones, now 6-4 (3-4 Big 12), enter a bye week before resuming their schedule, while TCU faces a challenging road test against BYU.
Final Score
| Team | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa State | 6 | 0 | 0 | 14 | 20 |
| TCU | 0 | 7 | 3 | 7 | 17 |
The matchup showcased the volatility and intensity of late-season NCAA football, as Iowa State’s resilience and special teams play upended a favored TCU squad at home.
