24-24 Special at Iowa State again: Cyclones knock off #2 this time in 2OT

Coach Paul Rhoads has become a dragon slayer over three years for the Iowa State Cyclones. On Friday Night in Ames, with a national ESPN audience, the Cyclones (6-4, 3-4 Big 12) knocked off #2 Oklahoma State Cowboys (10-1, 8-1 Big 12) 37-31 in 2 OT.

Most observers would say it was the biggest victory likely in Iowa State football history. ISU beats a 27 point favorite, after rebounding from a 24-7 third quarter deficit in front of a national television audience to force overtime. On Senior Night, at Jack Trice Stadium, the Cyclones pull off a huge win that throws a huge monkey wrench into the BCS title game pecking order.

For the second time in the 2011 season, ISU takes a game 24-24 into overtime in Ames. In the first OT game, earlier this season vs. Iowa, the Cyclones beat the Hawkeyes 44-41 in 3 OT. Last night, vs. #2 Oklahoma State, the Cyclones forced an interception in Okie State's possession in the second OT. With the ball, the Cyclones took three carries from the 25 yard line right down the Cowboys throat for a 37-31 victory.

David wins! Like the name of the movie Any Given Sunday, there is a reason the games are played on the field. Turnovers can often be a big equalizer.

#2 Oklahoma State made mistakes in Ames. In an emotional charged game, for different reasons for each team, Iowa State prevails. Oklahoma State threw three interceptions, which helped Iowa State get the upset. Sadly, earlier in the day, the Oklahoma State community faced a heavy heart, with the tragic loss of two women's basketball coaches, when the plane they were flying on in a recruiting trip crashed.

In the past three seasons under Paul Rhoads at Iowa State, the Cyclones have pulled off some special games.

• In 2009, in Lincoln, Iowa State 9, Nebraska 7


• In 2010, in Austin, Iowa State 28, #22 Texas 21


• In 2011, in Ames, Iowa State 44, Iowa 41 in 3 OT


• In 2011, in Ames, Iowa State 37, #2 Oklahoma State 31 in 2 OT

For the second time in three seasons, Iowa State is bowl eligible, after winning the season home finale of the season. Unlike 2009, the Cyclones have two games, rather than one left in Big 12 play.

Iowa State will wrap up the regular season with two final road games in Big 12 play. Next Saturday, the Cyclones will head to Norman for a game @ Oklahoma (8-1, 5-1 Big 12), then at Kansas State (8-2, 5-2 Big 12) on December 3Rd.

Fan bases should always remember... any given day! ISU is a program that hasn't won a share of football title in 99 and 100 years, respectively. There is always something special to play for on any given day!