Iowa State continues to make progress under new head coach Jimmy Rogers, securing a 45-42 victory over West Virginia at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday. 

The Cyclones improve to 3-2 overall and 1-1 in Big 12 play with the win, which could be a crucial one considering the tough stretch that's coming. 

Here are the three stars from the victory: 

Flora simply had a sensational day at the office. There's no other way to put it. West Virginia had absolutely no answers for Flora, as he finished with 212 rushing yards and five touchdowns. 

Aiden was the motor behind Iowa State's offense. The sophomore running back consistently broke through West Virginia's defense, including a 63-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter that put the Cyclones back in front, 38-35. He later scored from the two-yard line to give the Cyclones a 45-42 lead. Flora also contributed as a passer, throwing two touchdown passes; this was one of the biggest stories of the game.

The numbers: 19/27, 264 yards, one touchdown, one interception, passing rating 157.3, 18 yards rushing. 

Raynor controlled the passing game and kept Iowa State moving through the air. His 264 passing yards provided the consistency the Cyclones needed in a back-and-forth shootout. He also had a rushing touchdown, giving West Virginia defense another element to account for.

The numbers: six receptions, 160 receiving yards, one touchdown

Jackson was Raynor's biggest weapon through the air. He produced six catches for an impressive 160 yards, and his presence gave Iowa State a critical scoring play. His explosive catches stretched the West Virginia defense and opened opportunities for the rest of the offense.

Together, the trio gave the Cyclones the offensive balance it needed to escape with a home victory, and they did. In a game where every possession mattered, Iowa State needed its top playmakers to deliver consistently, and they did.

Flora's ability to create big plays on the ground, Raynor's command of the passing game, and Jackson showing how explosive he can be, gave the Cyclones multiple ways to move the ball and produced their best offensive output of the season - a 45-42 victory in a game that saw both teams combined for 87 points.

This much-needed victory has shown how important it is to have not one but three playmakers; this can change the course of the game. With all three contributing, Iowa State demonstrated the offensive versatility needed to compete in the Big 12. Their performance helped their team beat a very good West Virginia team today and continue their path towards bowl eligibility. 

Beyond the numbers, Jackson's performance showed why he was one of the game's most important players. He consistently created plays, made smart decisions, and delivered when Iowa State needed a play. His impact went beyond the box score and it helped the Cyclones maintain momentum from start to finish.

When you play as a team, you win as a team, and that's what the Cyclones did on this day.

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