By Hank Zimmerman
On a cold and windy day in Ames, Iowa, hopes were mild regarding Iowa State Football’s (3-8) chances of pulling out a win against the visiting Texas Tech Red Raiders (4-7, 8th in BIG 12). However, it wasn’t long before Iowa State silenced the doubters, winning the ball game 66-10 over Texas Tech.
The Cyclones got off to a strong start early in the first quarter thanks to a 24-yard rushing touchdown at the hands of Joel Lanning. Texas Tech stayed in the game, responding with a drive that led to a field goal. Despite the effort, this was the last point in which Texas Tech looked like they could stay in the game.
Iowa State showed dominance as they continued to score against the seemingly ill-prepared Texas Tech defense. Iowa State’s 31-point second quarter performance was the highest scoring quarter in ISU football history. The Cyclones were ahead 45-3 going into the second half, in which Iowa State’s Joel Lanning scored three more touchdowns to push the final score to 66-10; Texas Tech’s Keke Coutee scored a touchdown in the third. Lanning rushed 17 times during the game to the tune of 173 total rushing yards, a new personal best for Lanning. He also threw 3-4 for 51 passing yards. More importantly, he scored five rushing touchdowns, tying the school’s record for most rushing touchdowns in a single game.
Iowa State also showed off the pros of the two-quarterback system, splitting the offensive responsibilities between Lanning and ISU sophomore Jacob Park, who threw 14 for 18 for 285 yards and two touchdowns. ISU’s star receiver Allen Lazard also had a strong game, catching 7 passes for 137 yards and a single touchdown.
The Iowa State Cyclones will play at home on Saturday, November 26th against the traveling West Virginia Mountaineers (8-1). Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. CST.
