The Iowa State Cyclones opened up their 2015 season with a 24 point win over in-state, FCS foe, Northern Iowa.
After giving up an 87-yard drive that ended in a touchdown, the Cyclone defense awoke. First, an interception by Dale Pierson that eventually lead to a game tying touchdown. Then, during the next UNI drive, a forced fumble.
Rapid Reaction: Iowa State 31, UNI 7
Iowa State responded to adversity. It was something that head coach Paul Rhoads has stressed all week leading up to game one.
“We faced adversity early,” Rhoads said. “Our kids and coaches never blinked, never flinched.”
Iowa State did not look back after that, tallying a field goal to lead 10-7 at halftime, then expanding the lead by scoring three touchdowns in the second half to earn the victory.
MVP – Dale Pierson
Dale Pierson ended his junior year in 2014 with just two sacks in the 12 game season after making an appearance in every game. Saturday Night, Pierson recorded three sacks, and a 24-yard game-changing interception.
Honorable Mentions
Kamari Cotton-Moya: Cotton-Moya flew around Jack Trice, immediately making an impact during the first quarter. He finished the night with eight tackles, two being for a loss.
Allen Lazard: The Urbandale, Iowa native had himself a stat-filling night, grabbing four passes for 43 yards and a touchdown. It was evident quarterback Sam Richardson and Lazard were on the same page, and seems like the pair can be a dynamic duo of sorts this season. Lazard also returned 100 yards worth of Punt Returns.
Trever Ryen: A walk-on wide receiver turned running back was not super high on the list of what players were expected to impact the team on Saturday, however Trever Ryen did just that. Ryen worked in on multiple plays during the game, highlighted by an 81-yard punt return for a touchdown.
What needs fixed
Sam Richardson: The fifth-year senior quarterback looked like a second-year sophomore in the pocket on Saturday. Richardson was very hesitant to run and when he tried, he did not get very far. He was sacked four times on the night. Richardson did however complete 21/29 passes for 233 yards and two touchdowns. If he can establish a scrambling threat, he will be poised for a fantastic senior season.
What’s up next
Iowa State heads into their rivalry game against Iowa this Saturday. The game will be televised nationally by Fox.
Sep 5, 2015; Ames, IA, USA; Northern Iowa Panthers offensive lineman Robert Rathje (72) and Iowa State Cyclones defensive end Dale Pierson (45) battle for position at Jack Trice Stadium. The Cyclones beat the Panthers 31-7. Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports
