No. 8 BYU extended its perfect season to 5-0 with a 24-10 victory over Iowa State on Friday night, Oct. 10, 2026, in Provo. Quarterback Bear Bachmeier led the Cougars with a season-high 329 passing yards and a career-best 109 rushing yards, overcoming the absence of running back LJ Martin to secure the win.
Bachmeier Leads Offensive Surge
Bachmeier's performance marked his fourth career 300-yard game, as he completed 73% of his passes during the contest. The quarterback demonstrated increased efficiency compared to his previous matchup against TCU, completing his first seven passes of the game. His ability to move the chains was highlighted by a 26-yard run on the opening drive, which helped set up a touchdown by Journee Tonga on a 6-yard run.
Cougars Secure Second Half Lead
The Cougars' scoring drive in the second quarter was fueled by a 63-yard pass from Bachmeier to Roger Saleapaga. This play set up a 5-yard touchdown pass to Kyler Kasper, who backpedaled across the goal line to extend the BYU lead to 14-3 with 1:51 remaining before halftime. Bachmeier added a second touchdown pass in the third quarter, a 75-yard strike to Legend Glasker, which pushed the lead to 21-3.
Iowa State Mounts Fourth Quarter Push
Iowa State struggled to find offensive rhythm in the first half, managing only three points via a 40-yard field goal by Kyle Konrardy. The Cyclones' offense finally found momentum at the start of the fourth quarter following a muffed BYU punt. Jaylen Raynor threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to Christian Greenlaw with 12:51 remaining to cut the deficit to 21-10.
Cyclones Maintain Rushing Consistency
Despite the loss, the Cyclones maintained a significant rushing streak, recording 102 rushing yards. This marked the 23rd consecutive game in which Iowa State has produced 100-plus yards on the ground. Aiden Flora contributed 86 yards on the ground, though he was limited to just 11 rushing yards prior to halftime.
Defensive Milestones in Provo
The matchup was notable for BYU's defensive performance against the run, as the game marked the first time this season that the Cougars allowed an opponent to rush for over 100 yards. While Iowa State managed to reach the 100-yard rushing mark, the Cougars' defense ultimately held the Cyclones to 10 total points.
Season Standings and Outlook
The victory improves BYU to 5-0 on the season and 3-0 in Big 12 play. Meanwhile, Iowa State drops to 3-3 overall and 1-2 in conference play. The Cyclones will take a bye next weekend before traveling to face Arizona on Saturday, Oct. 24.
Game Conclusion
The BYU win was punctuated by a late field goal from Matthias Dunn, who converted a 38-yard attempt in the fourth quarter to finalize the 24-10 score. The game took place under cloudy conditions with occasional light rain in the Provo area.
