In a thrilling Week 8 Big 12 matchup, No. 9 Iowa State survived a major upset scare with a last-minute comeback, defeating UCF 38-35 at Jack Trice Stadium. The Cyclones secured their undefeated status thanks to a late 1-yard touchdown sneak by quarterback Rocco Becht with just 30 seconds remaining, followed by a game-sealing interception from Jontez Williams on UCF’s final drive.
The win propelled Iowa State to a 7-0 overall record and 4-0 in the Big 12, matching the program’s best start since the 1938 team. The Cyclones have now won four consecutive conference games, marking another milestone in their historic season. Meanwhile, UCF’s struggles continued as they dropped their fourth straight game, falling to 3-4 overall and 1-3 in the conference.
UCF came out strong, using a powerful ground attack to take control of the game. They rushed for a season-high 354 yards, led by running back RJ Harvey, who piled up 196 yards and a touchdown, and quarterback Jacurri Brown, who added 154 yards on the ground. Harvey’s 1-yard touchdown run put the Knights ahead 35-27 with 11 minutes remaining, following a dramatic turnover when UCF’s Braeden Marshall intercepted Becht’s pass and nearly returned it for a touchdown, dropping the ball just shy of the goal line.
Despite struggling through the air, Becht’s resilience proved crucial for Iowa State’s comeback. He completed just 20 of 46 passes (a season-low 43%) and threw two interceptions, including a costly pick-six and another nearly returned for a touchdown. Yet, the dual-threat quarterback made up for it with his legs, rushing a career-high 20 times for 97 yards and leading the Cyclones when it mattered most.
With UCF holding an eight-point lead, Iowa State’s defense stiffened, forcing two consecutive punts to give their offense a chance. After Kyle Konrardy’s 30-yard field goal narrowed the gap to 35-30, Becht and the Cyclones took over with 1:48 left on the clock.
On the decisive drive, Becht connected with Jaylin Noel on two key passes and scrambled for a critical first down, before a pass interference penalty against UCF positioned Iowa State at the Knights’ 4-yard line. Becht followed up with a 3-yard run and then powered in from 1 yard out to put the Cyclones ahead 38-35.
UCF had a final opportunity to respond, but Jacurri Brown’s deep pass was intercepted by Williams, sealing the Cyclones’ victory and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
The victory not only keeps Iowa State’s hopes alive for a Big 12 title but also underscores their resilience in tight situations. Despite offensive struggles, including Becht’s two interceptions and a slow start, the Cyclones found a way to grind out a win when the pressure was highest.
Head coach Matt Campbell praised his team’s toughness after the game, saying, “We didn’t play a perfect game by any means, but the heart and fight our guys showed tonight made the difference. Rocco kept his composure and the defense came up big when we needed it.”
For UCF, the loss marks another disappointment in what has become a difficult stretch. The Knights led by two touchdowns early in the third quarter and controlled the game with their dominant rushing attack, but they were unable to close out the win. Despite his efforts on the ground, Jacurri Brown struggled in the passing game when it mattered most, and the late interception sealed their fate.
Head coach Gus Malzahn reflected on the missed opportunity, stating, “It’s a tough one to swallow. We played hard and had our chances, but we couldn’t finish. Credit to Iowa State—they made the plays down the stretch.”
Iowa State will look to continue their undefeated season as they prepare for a challenging stretch of conference play, with aspirations of a Big 12 Championship and a potential spot in the College Football Playoff. UCF, on the other hand, will aim to regroup and find a way back into the win column as they fight for bowl eligibility in their first season in the Big 12.
The Cyclones’ dramatic victory over UCF showcases the unpredictable nature of Big 12 football and adds another chapter to Iowa State’s historic season. With their eyes on a deeper run, the Cyclones are proving they have the grit to overcome adversity and keep their dreams alive.
