Recap: Iowa State vs Texas Tech, Cyclones Lose Heartbreaker in Lubbock
The Iowa State Cyclones traveled to Lubbock, Texas on Saturday to face the Texas Tech Red Raiders in a Big 12 matchup. In a game that went down to the wire, the Cyclones fell short, losing 34-27 in a game that had all the makings of a classic.
A Close Battle Throughout
The game was a back-and-forth affair from the start. Both offenses moved the ball effectively, and the defenses struggled to contain the opposing team's offensive firepower. Texas Tech entered halftime with a narrow 17-14 lead, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.
A Late Surge That Came Up Short
Iowa State looked to take control in the third quarter, but Texas Tech responded with a touchdown of their own to keep the Cyclones at bay. The fourth quarter saw a flurry of points, with both teams trading touchdowns and field goals. With just over a minute left, Iowa State had a chance to tie the game, but their drive stalled out inside the Red Raider's 20-yard line.
Key Moments and Players
Key Moments:
- Texas Tech's Defense Shines: The Red Raiders were able to force three turnovers in the game, including an interception in the fourth quarter that helped seal the victory.
- A Missed Opportunity: A crucial missed field goal by Iowa State in the fourth quarter proved costly, allowing Texas Tech to keep their lead.
Key Players:
- De'Andre Yancy (Texas Tech): Yancy had a breakout performance, rushing for 121 yards and two touchdowns.
- Hunter Dekkers (Iowa State): Dekkers threw for 274 yards and two touchdowns, but also threw two interceptions.
Looking Ahead
The loss drops Iowa State to 4-4 on the season and 2-3 in the Big 12. The Cyclones will need to regroup quickly as they face a tough schedule in the coming weeks. With a strong offensive core, Iowa State will need to improve their defense and minimize turnovers if they want to make a late-season push.