Kyle Konrardy’s Late Kick Secures Iowa State’s Victory Over Iowa

Kyle Konrardy delivered a clutch performance on Saturday, kicking a decisive 54-yard field goal with just 1:52 remaining in the game, leading No. 16 Iowa State to a 16-13 victory over their in-state rival, Iowa. This win marks the Cyclones’ second consecutive triumph over the Hawkeyes and their third victory in the last four matchups.

The game unfolded in Ames, Iowa, where Konrardy’s late kick capped off an impressive 55-yard drive orchestrated by quarterback Rocco Becht, which took over six minutes off the clock. This victory also allowed Iowa State to reclaim the CyHawk Trophy for the first time since 2011.

Konrardy had previously made a game-winning 54-yard field goal against Iowa last season, sealing a narrow 20-19 victory. This time, he put points on the board earlier in the game with field goals of 44 and 27 yards, establishing a 6-0 lead for the Cyclones.

Iowa State’s defense showcased significant strength, particularly in the closing moments. Tamatoa McDonough recorded two crucial sacks on Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski during the Hawkeyes’ final possession, forcing them to turn the ball over on downs.

The Cyclones initially surged to a 13-3 lead, thanks in part to a 24-yard interception return by Jeremiah Cooper, which set up a short touchdown pass to Benjamin Brahmer. Iowa managed to respond before halftime, executing an 85-yard drive that culminated in a 2-yard rushing touchdown by Gronowski, narrowing the score to 13-10 at the break.

In the second half, the Hawkeyes continued to fight back. Drew Stevens tied the game at 13 with a 36-yard field goal late in the third quarter. However, Iowa’s offense struggled to find its rhythm, with Gronowski completing 13 of 24 passes for only 83 yards. Meanwhile, running back Jaziun Patterson led the rushing attack with 60 yards on 13 carries.

As the season progresses, the Hawkeyes will look to improve their offensive performance as they prepare to face UMass next week. Iowa State, now holding a record of 3-0, will travel to face Arkansas State in their next game.

With this victory, Iowa State continues to build momentum as they eye further success in the season ahead, while Iowa seeks to turn their performance around. The rivalry remains fierce, with the past six encounters between the teams decided by a mere total of 15 points, highlighting the competitive nature of this annual matchup.