Iowa State stuns No. 25 Colorado Buffaloes in Big 12 opener

Cyclones rally from 14-point deficit to win 24-21

Iowa State's defense comes up with big plays late to seal victory

AMES, Iowa - Iowa State pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the college football season on Saturday, rallying from a 14-point deficit to defeat No. 25 Colorado Buffaloes 24-21 in their Big 12 opener.

The Cyclones, who were picked to finish last in the Big 12 this season, trailed 21-7 midway through the third quarter. But Iowa State's defense came up with two big plays late in the game to seal the victory.

With just over six minutes remaining in the game, Colorado quarterback Steven Montez threw an interception that was returned by Greg Eisworth to the Buffaloes' 1-yard line. Breece Hall punched it in on the next play to give Iowa State a 24-21 lead.

Colorado had a chance to tie the game with a field goal in the final seconds, but the kick was blocked by Iowa State's Will McDonald IV.

The victory was Iowa State's first over a ranked opponent since 2018. It was also the Cyclones' first win over Colorado since 2015.

Iowa State's offense struggled to get going in the first half, but the Cyclones came alive in the second half. Hall finished with 148 yards rushing and a touchdown, while quarterback Brock Purdy threw for 210 yards and a touchdown.

Colorado's offense was led by Montez, who threw for 278 yards and two touchdowns. However, the Buffaloes were also hurt by three turnovers.

The loss is a major setback for Colorado, which was considered one of the favorites to win the Pac-12 South this season. The Buffaloes are now 1-2 on the season.

Iowa State, meanwhile, is now 2-1 on the season. The Cyclones will host Baylor next Saturday.