Dublin Drama: Rocco Becht Leads Iowa State to Thrilling Escape in Ireland Opener

The Emerald Isle witnessed a blend of gridiron grit and sheer relief as the Iowa State Cyclones kicked off their 2023 season in Dublin, Ireland. What was anticipated to be a routine win against FCS opponent Northern Iowa quickly morphed into a nail-biting spectacle, ending with the Cyclones escaping with a hard-fought 30-24 victory.

At the heart of this transatlantic drama was redshirt freshman quarterback Rocco Becht, whose performance journeyed from shaky uncertainty to clutch heroism.

From the outset, the international stage seemed to add an extra layer of pressure. Becht, making his debut as the starting signal-caller, threw an early interception, hinting at a potentially long day.

However, true to the "never a doubt" confidence he exuded post-game, Becht didn't let the initial stumble define his afternoon. Instead, he showcased a remarkable composure that belied his inexperience, shaking off the rust to deliver two crucial touchdown passes – including the game-winner – and throwing for 213 yards on 23-of-35 passing.

The game itself was a roller coaster.

Northern Iowa, far from intimidated by the FBS opponent, played with a fierce determination, exploiting Iowa State's early mistakes and keeping the contest alarmingly close. Penalties plagued the Cyclones, with 12 infractions costing them 105 yards, and the offense struggled at times to find a consistent rhythm.

Yet, when it mattered most, Becht connected with receivers like Jayden Higgins for a pivotal 22-yard touchdown that swung momentum back in Iowa State's favor and ultimately secured the win.

Coach Matt Campbell, ever the pragmatist, acknowledged the team's imperfections but underscored the importance of "finding a way to win." This victory wasn't about flawless execution; it was about resilience, adaptability, and the crucial experience gained under pressure.

For Becht, it was a baptism by fire, proving his mettle in a high-stakes, high-travel environment. His ability to rebound from adversity and deliver under pressure offers a promising glimpse into the future of the Cyclones' offense.

While the team will undoubtedly dissect the film, address the penalties, and work on consistency, the Dublin opener served as a valuable learning experience.

It highlighted areas for improvement but also showcased the fighting spirit of a team that refused to be rattled. For Rocco Becht, the Irish adventure cemented his status as a confident leader capable of navigating the storm, leaving Cyclone fans with a sense of hopeful anticipation for the season ahead.