Iowa State shuts out Houston 20-0 in dominant performance
- Iowa State improved to 4-0 for the first time since 2000, with Rocco Becht throwing for 153 yards and a touchdown.
- The Cyclones' defense was dominant, achieving a shutout and allowing only 9.7 points per game prior to this match.
- Houston's loss marked their first 1-4 start since 2004, highlighting ongoing struggles for the team.
On Saturday night, No. 18 Iowa State achieved a significant victory over Houston, winning 20-0. This marked Iowa State's first 4-0 start since 2000, with coach Matt Campbell becoming the school's all-time victory leader. Rocco Becht led the Cyclones with 153 passing yards and a touchdown, while Abu Sama III contributed with 101 rushing yards and a touchdown. The Cyclones' defense was formidable, allowing only 9.7 points per game prior to this match, and they secured their first road conference shutout since 1971. The game saw Becht throw a 12-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Higgins late in the third quarter, followed by a 77-yard touchdown run by Sama in the fourth quarter, solidifying the win. Iowa State's offense was efficient, converting 9 of 17 third downs, while Houston struggled, managing only 1 of 10 on third downs and committing seven penalties for 77 yards. Houston's performance was disappointing, as they fell to 1-4 for the first time since 2004, and this loss followed a previous shutout against Cincinnati. Donovan Smith, the Cougars' quarterback, completed 8 of 12 passes for 71 yards but threw an interception, while Stacy Sneed led the rushing attack with 79 yards. The Cougars faced consecutive shutouts for the first time in nearly three decades. Looking ahead, Iowa State will host Baylor next Saturday, while Houston will travel to TCU for their next game. The implications of this game could affect both teams' standings in their respective conferences as they continue their seasons.