uni vs iowa state football 2023 score,Match Overview
Match Overview
When it comes to the 2023 football season, the matchup between the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) and Iowa State University (Iowa State) was one that generated a lot of buzz. The game, which took place on October 14, 2023, was a highly anticipated clash between two teams with contrasting styles and ambitions.
Team Previews
UNI, known for its strong rushing offense and solid defense, entered the game with a 4-2 record. The Panthers had been on a roll, with their last two games resulting in victories over Northern Illinois and South Dakota State. On the other hand, Iowa State, with a 3-3 record, was looking to bounce back from a tough loss to Oklahoma State.
| Team | Record | Key Players |
|---|---|---|
| University of Northern Iowa | 4-2 | Quarterback: Payton Smith, Running Back: Darius James, Defensive End: Jalen Johnson |
| Iowa State University | 3-3 | Quarterback: Brock Purdy, Running Back: Breece Hall, Defensive Tackle: Jalen Mayes |
Game Highlights
The game was a thrilling back-and-forth battle, with both teams showcasing their strengths. UNI’s offense, led by Payton Smith and Darius James, was able to move the ball effectively, while Iowa State’s defense kept the Panthers’ rushing attack in check. However, it was the Cyclones’ offense, powered by Brock Purdy and Breece Hall, that ultimately made the difference.
In the first quarter, UNI took the early lead with a 14-yard touchdown run by Darius James. The Cyclones responded with a field goal, but the Panthers added another touchdown in the second quarter to extend their lead to 14-3. Iowa State then scored a touchdown to cut the deficit to 14-10 at halftime.
The third quarter was a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to score. However, in the fourth quarter, Iowa State’s offense finally broke through. Brock Purdy connected with Breece Hall on a 45-yard touchdown pass, giving the Cyclones a 17-14 lead. UNI tried to rally, but the Cyclones held on for the win, 24-21.
Player Performances
Payton Smith had a solid performance for UNI, completing 14 of 24 passes for 191 yards and a touchdown. Darius James rushed for 102 yards and a touchdown, while Jalen Johnson added a sack and a forced fumble. On the other side, Brock Purdy was 19 of 30 for 244 yards and two touchdowns, with Breece Hall rushing for 123 yards and a touchdown.
Key Plays
One of the key plays of the game was a 45-yard pass interference penalty against Iowa State in the second quarter. The penalty set up UNI’s second touchdown, which extended their lead to 14-3. Another crucial play was a 45-yard touchdown pass from Brock Purdy to Breece Hall in the fourth quarter, which gave Iowa State the lead for good.
Post-Game Reactions
After the game, UNI head coach Mark Farley expressed his disappointment with the loss but praised his team’s effort. “We played hard, but we just couldn’t get over the hump,” Farley said. Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell was pleased with his team’s resilience. “We fought back, and we showed a lot of heart,” Campbell said.
The win put Iowa State at 4-3 on the season, while UNI fell to 4-3. The game was a showcase of the high level of competition in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, with both teams demonstrating their ability to compete with the best in the league.
