Iowa State achieved a decisive 20-0 victory over Houston on Saturday night, marking their fourth consecutive win and their best start since 2000.
This victory was a pivotal moment for the Cyclones, as it not only showcased the team’s ongoing success but also elevated head coach Matt Campbell to become the program’s all-time leader in victories with 57. This milestone further establishes Campbell’s legacy at Iowa State, a program that has shown marked improvement under his guidance.
The Cyclones’ defense, a key factor in their success this season, performed exceptionally, keeping Houston scoreless. Ranked ninth nationally in points allowed, Iowa State’s defense maintained relentless pressure, hindering Houston’s offense from finding any rhythm. This win exemplifies the Cyclones’ ability to dominate games through their impressive defensive play, which has become their signature.
For Houston, this defeat represents their second consecutive shutout, following a 34-0 loss to Cincinnati the previous week. Head coach Willie Fritz is facing difficulties in establishing consistency at the quarterback position. He has utilized a two-quarterback system, alternating between Donovan Smith and Zeon Chriss, but neither player has emerged as the clear starter.
Fritz voiced his frustration with the ongoing quarterback uncertainty, stating, “We’re looking for a guy that can step up and be the guy.” He is also considering opportunities for third-string quarterback Ui Ale as potential solutions arise.
“It’s reached a point where we need to evaluate our play. If a player isn’t performing, we must limit their time or improve our coaching to prevent repeated mistakes,” Fritz explained. He noted that simplifying the playbook might be necessary, as some players are struggling to execute plays, even with the assistance of wristbands.
As Houston prepares for a challenging matchup against TCU with a 1-4 record, they find themselves under increasing pressure to turn their season around before it slips further away.
Houston’s offensive struggles break 30-year record
The Houston Cougars have experienced a challenging transition into Big 12 play in 2024, marked by back-to-back shutout losses that reveal significant offensive issues. After a 34-0 defeat to Cincinnati in their first conference game, Houston suffered another blanking with a 20-0 loss at home against No. 18 Iowa State. This troubling trend highlights the Cougars’ struggles to adjust in the competitive Big 12 since their 2023 entry, having now been shut out in three of their 11 conference games, contrasting sharply with their prior success in the American Athletic Conference.
Houston’s offensive drought encompasses 225 plays, during which they have failed to score any points. Head coach Willie Fritz, in his first season, expressed frustration over the team’s performance, acknowledging that while they played hard, they lacked the execution and intelligence necessary for success. “You gotta play really sharp and crisp,” he emphasized, noting the impact of untimely penalties, missed blocks, and negative plays that have stymied their offensive efforts.
The consecutive shutouts are historic, marking the first time since 1994 that Houston has been scoreless in back-to-back games, reminiscent of a tough 1-10 season. Despite these challenges, the Cougars have shown flashes of potential, particularly in their opening drive against Iowa State, highlighted by a 37-yard run from running back Stacy Sneed. However, this promising start quickly faded when Donovan Smith’s fourth-down pass fell short.
Despite the offensive difficulties, Houston’s defense kept the team competitive for almost three quarters. The Cyclones managed only a field goal in the first half, thanks to solid defensive plays, including four consecutive punts from Iowa State. Coach Fritz praised the defense for their effective positioning, tackling, and ability to limit explosive plays.
Eventually, Iowa State found success late in the third quarter, with Cyclone running back Jaylon Jackson setting up a touchdown pass to Jayden Higgins. Iowa State later scored again in the fourth quarter with a 77-yard touchdown from Abu Sama III, securing the 20-0 victory.
On offense, Houston used a rotation of quarterbacks throughout the game. Smith ended up 8-of-12 for 71 yards with an interception, while Zeon Chriss was 1-of-4 for one yard and also threw an interception. Offensive progress was further hindered by penalties, despite the Cougars gaining 178 rushing yards at an average of 5.7 yards per carry. Their best opportunity came in the fourth quarter when Smith connected with Stephon Johnson for a 14-yard pass, but Johnson’s fumble ended that drive.
As Houston gears up for a challenging week and a nationally televised matchup against TCU, the team is still on the hunt for solutions. Coach Fritz retains optimism about the team’s potential for improvement, acknowledging the emotional toll of recent defeats. “It weighs on everybody,” he stated, underscoring the need to build a winning culture over time.
Now 1-4 for the season and 0-2 in Big 12 play, the Cougars face a tough road ahead as they seek their first conference win under Fritz, committed to turning their season around.
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