Rocco Becht Leads Iowa State to Historic 11-Win Season
Rocco Becht, a redshirt sophomore quarterback from Wesley Chapel, Florida, made headlines with his heroics in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, propelling No. 18 Iowa State to a historic 11-win season. The game, held at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, saw Becht shine under pressure as he led the Cyclones to a thrilling 42-41 victory over No. 13 Miami (FL).
A Personal Triumph for Becht
For Becht, the matchup held special significance as it marked his return to Florida, where he grew up. Playing in front of friends and family, Becht delivered a standout performance, throwing for 270 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for 23 yards, including the game-winning touchdown with just 56 seconds remaining. His stellar play not only secured a victory for Iowa State but also showcased his leadership and composure in critical moments.
“This was my first game back in Florida at the collegiate level,” Becht shared. “I had a bunch of my friends here tonight for the first time to see me play, so it was really special for me to get this win.”
The Climactic Final Drive
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading blows in a high-scoring affair. The Cyclones found themselves trailing late in the game, needing a touchdown to secure the win. With the ball on the Miami one-yard line on a crucial fourth-and-one situation, all eyes were on Becht to deliver. In a moment of immense pressure, Becht’s one-yard score tied the game at 41, ultimately leading Iowa State to victory.
Throughout the season, Becht had earned praise from head coach Matt Campbell for his leadership and ability to perform in clutch situations. His unwavering focus and determination were on full display as he guided the Cyclones to a historic triumph, capping off a remarkable season with an unforgettable win.
Celebrating Success and Unity
Following the hard-fought victory, Becht was named the game’s MVP and chose to make the cinnamon roll mascot edible for his team to enjoy, a fitting end to a sweet win. The camaraderie and resilience displayed by Iowa State throughout the season were key factors in their success, with players like Jaylin Noel and Coach Campbell reflecting on the team’s journey and the significance of the win.
As the Cyclones celebrated their historic 11-win season, Becht’s standout performance and leadership left a lasting impression, solidifying his place as a key figure in Iowa State’s football legacy. The victory was not just a triumph on the field but a testament to the team’s unity, fortitude, and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
