The CSJ staff was concerned gong into the game in Dublin that we would watch another chapter of our Cyclones faltering under the bright lights on the big stages: B12 Title games, top tier bowl games, and games against the GoBlas. End of the first quarter, and ISU is down 17-0 or 21-3, and the game is over.
A solid start in the rain and a 7-0 lead was reassuring, with the opponent making the critical early mistake. Once the offense found its rhythm, they controlled the line of scrimmage and ground out first downs. 9 first downs running, 9 first downs passing. Only generating 4.2 YPP (while giving up 6.7) is concerning, but bigger plays will come.
While the defense was leaky in big plays, they were also nails at key moments. The unit forced 3 three-and-outs, and another 3 turnovers on downs, one at their own 5. The stop with 8 minutes left was the pivot point of the game.
Lots of positives, and much to work on. The whole was a great moment in front of the college football universe. Well done.
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