The Iowa State Cyclones upset the Texas Longhorns 24-0 in what has to be Charlie Strong's worse loss at Texas. The Cyclones and Longhorns are now both 3-5 this season. Here are three things we learned from each team in Iowa State's win.
Texas Longhorns:
1. Offense Still Has Major Issues
This is likely the worst offensive performance in Strong's tenure at Texas. It's also likely one of the worst in Texas history. The offensive couldn't even get the ball past the Iowa State 47-yard line until the final drive. It's not like Iowa State has an elite defense either, as it allowed 45 points in its last three games. Jerrod Heard looked awful and ineffective, while Tyrone Swoopes wasn't much better. This is an offensive embarrassment that Texas should be ashamed of.
2. Bowl Game In Doubt
At 3-5, Texas' bowl game prospects are now in doubt. It's highly unlikely Texas will beat Baylor in the season finale, which means Texas has to win its next three games. The Longhorns have Kansas, West Virginia and Texas Tech left. Those are all games that Texas can win, but they have to play much, much better than the Longhorns did against Iowa State.
3. Charlie Strong Back On Hot Seat
This is worthy of its own article, but Strong is back on the hot seat. This is a game Texas should NEVER lose, rebuilding year or not. Strong had to feel safe after Texas upset Oklahoma, but he's placed himself on the hot seat after losing to Iowa State.
Iowa State Cyclones:
1. Bowl Game Still Unlikely
Even with the win over Texas, Iowa State likely won't make a bowl game this season. Iowa State shouldn't beat Oklahoma or Oklahoma State, so even if the Cyclones beat Kansas State and West Virginia, there won't be a bowl game. However, a strong finish could be enough for head coach Paul Rhoads to keep his job.
2. Warren Has A Bright Future
The Cyclones have a budding young superstar on their hands in freshman RB Mike Warren. In five of his last six games, Warren has rushed for over 125 yards. He has a bright future, although he'll likely often be overlooked because he plays for Iowa State.
3. Offensive Changes Were Smart
Rhoads likely felt his seat burning when he decided to can offensive coordinator Mark Mangino and name Joe Lanning the starting QB. Lanning showed promise against Baylor and played well against Texas. Lanning wasn't perfect, but he played well enough to win. It was a risky gamble by Rhoads, but boy, did it pay off.
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