Iowa State's road trip to Provo ended in a disappointing Friday night as the Cyclones fell 24-10 to BYU. The offense struggled to find its identity in this game, recording just 200 total yards, while the Cougars generated 506 yards behind quarterback Bear Bachmeier. Even though the Cyclones found the end zone in the fourth quarter, the late score wasn't enough to get back in the game. 

Here are my position grades after the loss: 

Jaylen Raynor completed 16 of 29 passes for 98 yards and one touchdown - his lowest output of the season. He avoided throwing costly interceptions, but limited passing production made it hard for Iowa State to sustain drives. The Cyclones needed more game-changing plays through the air to challenge BYU's defense.

Star running back Aiden Flora led Iowa State with 86 rushing yards, highlighted by an incredible fourth down conversion that saw him circle all over the field to move the chains. His production gave the Cyclones a running game contribution, but Iowa State finished with 102 rushing yards as a team. The offense needed more successful plays on the ground to help take pressure off Raynor and create better passing opportunities.

Ty Claiborne led Iowa State in receiving with 31 yards, while Christain Greenlaw caught a one yard touchdown pass from his quarterback in the fourth quarter, proving one of Cyclones only touchdown and something to put on film. However, the receiving group struggled to produce significant yardage against BYU's defense.

Iowa State's offensive production has reflected a difficult night up front. The Cyclones finished with 200 total yards and averaged 3.6yards per play. Better protection and more consistent running lanes will be important as the offense looks to bounce back.

The Cyclones' defense allowed 506 total yards, including 329 passing yards and 177 rushing yards. Bachmeier completed 22 of 30 passes for two touchdowns and added 109 rushing yards. This led to a 75-yard touchdown pass to Legend Glasker, underscoring the danger of surrendering explosive plays.

Kyle Konarady covered a 40-yard field Goal, but a missed 46-yard attempt prevented Iowa State from moving closer on the scoreboard. The Cyclones will need greater consistency in crucial kicking situations.

The Cyclones have shown some fight by scoring in the fourth quarter, but the overall performance fell short. Iowa State must improve if they want to get back in the win column again. The offense needs get better, the defense needs to stop allowing explosive plays,  and any scoring opportunities have to be finished to have any chance of competing for that elusive sixth win and bowl game berth. 

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