It was another memorable rivalry game between No. 21 Iowa and Iowa State on Saturday.
Iowa State kicker Kyle Konrardy stepped up and nailed a 54-yard field goal with just six seconds remaining to secure a dramatic 20-19 win over the Hawkeyes.
With Iowa State (2-0) starting their final drive at their own 22-yard line and only 34 seconds on the clock, Rocco Becht connected on three crucial passes, moving the ball 42 yards to set up Konrardy’s decisive kick. Iowa (1-1) managed a 35-yard kickoff return from Max White, giving them one last chance, but Cade McNamara’s attempt was picked off by Darien Porter, sealing the victory for the Cyclones.
The Hawkeyes had a 19-7 lead with 4:47 left in the third quarter following Kaleb Johnson’s 4-yard touchdown run, although McNamara’s two-point conversion attempt failed.
Iowa State mounted a comeback, with Becht connecting on a 75-yard touchdown pass to Jaylin Noel late in the third and adding a 46-yard field goal early in the fourth quarter.
Johnson, who rushed for 187 yards, opened the scoring for Iowa with a 27-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Despite leading 13-0 at halftime, the Hawkeyes missed opportunities to extend their lead, settling for two field goals from Drew Stevens after being in first-and-goal situations.
The Cyclones outgained the Hawkeyes 361-303, with Becht throwing for 272 yards and adding a 3-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Higgins early in the third quarter. Noel was a standout with five receptions for 133 yards.
Iowa had 204 rushing yards, but McNamara struggled, completing 13 of 28 passes for just 99 yards. Iowa State’s defense held firm, and the game ultimately came down to that final, decisive drive. Iowa State will enjoy a bye week before hosting Arkansas State on September 21 at 1 p.m.
