Ames, Iowa — (RI)- Iowa State survived the upset bid by Northern Iowa 29-26 in triple overtime Saturday in the season opener at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.
Cyclone quarterback Brock Purdy saved the game by diving on a fumble at the goal line in the third overtime and running back Sheldon Croney scored the winning touchdown one play later.
Iowa State was the heavy favorite going in — but Purdy says it was better to be tested than to have a runaway game.
Purdy threw for 278 yards and two touchdowns in leading the Cyclones from behind to tie the game in the fourth quarter and then twice in the overtime periods. He says the win is something they can learn from.
UNI got a defensive touchdown on a fumble recovery that was upheld on review that gave them the lead late in the third quarter Running back Trevor Allen says the defense kept them in the game.
He says they gave a good effort.
UNI true freshman quarterback Will McElvain got his first college start in the game and made some big plays scrambling that kept them in the game.
He threw for 228 yards and one touchdown. Iowa State has the week off before they host Iowa on September 14th. The Panthers host Southern Utah next Saturday.
Photo Courtesy Radio Iowa
