#16 Iowa State vs Baylor FULL GAME (10-05-24)

🏈 The Cyclones roared back after an early deficit to secure a 43-21 victory over Baylor in front of a raucous crowd at Jack Trice Stadium. The win moves Iowa State to 5-0 for the first time since 1980, continuing their dominant form in Big 12 play. 🔥 Rocco Becht led the way with 277 passing yards and two touchdowns, hitting Benjamin Brahmer and Jayden Higgins for scores. Higgins' 11-yard touchdown reception marked his seventh straight game with a TD, further solidifying his role as a go-to playmaker. Iowa State's ground game was equally potent, with Jaylon Jackson rushing for 107 yards and two touchdowns — his first since transferring from Eastern Michigan. 🚨 The Cyclone defense regrouped after giving up two early touchdowns, locking Baylor down in the second half and holding the Bears to just 63 yards over their final four possessions. A key interception by Jontez Williams and three three-and-outs stymied any chance of a Baylor comeback. 🎥 Special teams made a massive impact, with Myles Mendeszoon blocking a Baylor punt in the second quarter, which Caden Matson returned 25 yards for a touchdown. This was Iowa State's first punt return touchdown since 2004. 🌪️ Iowa State's offense racked up a season-high 542 total yards, with 277 through the air and 265 on the ground. The offensive line paved the way for another explosive rushing performance, marking their third straight game with over 200 yards on the ground. 👀 Baylor started strong with two touchdowns on their first two drives, but their offense stalled after halftime. Sawyer Robertson threw for 258 yards and three touchdowns but was intercepted by Williams in the red zone, and the Bears couldn't regain momentum. 🏆 With this victory, Iowa State remains unbeaten in Big 12 play and continues to build momentum heading into the second half of the season. Baylor, on the other hand, drops to 0-3 in conference play, with their hopes of turning the season around slipping further away.