Iowa State wins first Big 12 game in 45-42 shootout

Iowa State defeated West Virginia 45-42 at home on October 3 for its first Big 12 victory. Aiden Flora produced 212 rushing yards, three rushing touchdowns and two touchdown passes, Jaylen Raynor passed for 264 yards, and a late forced fumble preserved the win. The 577-yard offensive performance was encouraging, but allowing 518 yards keeps defensive reliability central to the season outlook.