Rocco Becht, Abu Sama III Lead No. 18 Iowa State Past Houston, 20
No. 18 Iowa State upset No. 2 Houston 20-19 in overtime on Saturday in a thrilling season opener at Kinnick Stadium. Rocco Becht and Abu Sama III led the Cyclones to their first win over a top-5 team since 2011.
Neither team was able to generate much offense in regulation, with both offenses combining for just 491 yards of total offense. Houston missed two field goals in the second half, while Iowa State had to settle for field goals on three of their drives.
With the game tied 10-10 late in the fourth quarter, Becht hit Sama III for a 32-yard pass to set up the game-winning field goal. Becht finished the game with 178 passing yards, while Sama III had six catches for 89 yards.
In overtime, Houston had a chance to win the game with a field goal, but Sama III intercepted a pass from Clayton Tune at the 3-yard line.
Iowa State's defense held Houston to just 266 yards of offense, including just 86 rushing yards. The Cyclones also recorded three sacks and six tackles for loss.
Iowa State's upset win is a major statement for the Cyclones, who are seeking to contend for the Big 12 championship this season. Becht and Sama III have emerged as a dynamic duo on offense, while the defense showed that it can hold its own against top competition.
The Cyclones' win moves them to 1-0 on the season, while Houston falls to 0-1. Iowa State will face Iowa next Saturday in their rivalry game, while Houston will host Kansas in their home opener.