With four seconds left in the game, Iowa State’s Connor Assalley hit a game-winning field goal, handing the Longhorns their fourth loss of the season. The Cyclones used Brock Purdy’s 354 yards to win 23-21.
The story of the game was Texas’ inability to move the ball on offense, especially in the first half. The Longhorns punted the ball nine different times, including eight three-and-outs. Only four of Texas’ drives lasted longer than three plays, three of which ended in touchdowns.
Sam Ehlinger completed 55% of his passes, going 22/40 with 273 yards and a touchdown. Wide receiver Devin Duvernay was clutch down the stretch, picking up first downs to keep Texas drives alive. He ended with a game-high nine catches and 107 yards.
Iowa State made a huge stop with three minutes left in the game, making Texas punt the ball back and giving them a chance to win. Lining up for a field goal with two minutes and 16 seconds left, Joseph Ossai jumped offsides, giving Iowa State a first down.
That penalty is ultimately what lost the game for Texas, giving Iowa State the ability to drain the clock out and hit the game-winning kick as the clock expired. The Cyclones move to 6-4 and above Texas in the Big 12 standings.
While the Longhorns are not eliminated from the Big 12 championship race, it is highly unlikely. The Longhorns would need to win out, have Iowa State to lose one more time to either Kansas or Kansas State, and have Baylor lose their final three games.
Texas closes the season out on the road to Baylor and at home against Texas Tech and is playing for a better bowl game at this point. It has been a rough season for the Longhorns and today’s game against Iowa State was their final chance to prove themselves.
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