On a cold morning morning in Ames, this game started out about as well as could reasonably be expected for Kansas. They forced a quick punt and then found some offensive success, even capping their first drive with a made field goal! After allowing an Iowa State touchdown, Liam Jones would connect on another kick to make it 7-6.
In the second quarter, Jones' inconsistency returned. Still down 7-6, he failed to hit a 35 yarder that would have put KU back on top. The Cyclones put up another touchdown and at the end of the half, Kansas once again was set up to kick a makeable field goal. From 30 yards Jones was on target and the game was a respectable 14-9 headed into the locker room.
The second half was a lot more exciting. Iowa State scored an early touchdown to extend their lead, but KU scored two straight touchdowns to grab a 24-21 lead at the end of the third. ISU answered by scoring just over a minute into the 4th, and missed the PAT. That's what happens when your kicker's last name is Assalley. KU wasn't done though, as Stephon Robinson broke open for a 40 yard touchdown reception to make it 31-27.
It was time for the Kansas defense to make a big stop, so of course ISU drove the length of the field to retake the lead. Kansas was stopped quickly on the ensuing drive, and went for it on 4th and 5 but failed to convert. Iowa State had a short field, and came up with a touchdown on an unexpected 4th down conversion to put the game away, 41-31.
Pooka had a well-deserved huge game, with 204 yards from scrimmage. Carter Stanley had a very Carter Stanley game, hitting some open receivers for big gains, while also making some horrible decisions and missing a couple of wide open receivers downfield. He ended up 23-44 with 328 yards and 3 TDs, but honestly should have had more.
It was great to be involved in a competitive game again after the last two weeks, but with this defense the result always seems like a foregone conclusion. The opponent will get the yards and points they need in the end. Kansas will finish their season next Saturday morning as they host Baylor, a school that has inexplicably not been shut down yet.