MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- A scolding from coach Dana Holgorsen after a double-digit loss a week ago helped West Virginia's players regain their focus and throw a wrench in No. 14 Iowa State's magical season.
Will Grier threw two touchdown passes, Justin Crawford broke out of a three-game slump with 102 yards rushing and West Virginia held on for a 20-16 victory over the Cyclones on Saturday.
The Mountaineers (6-3, 4-2 Big 12) became bowl eligible and knocked the Cyclones (6-3, 4-2, No. 15 CFP) out of a four-way tie for first place.
Iowa State trailed 20-0 late in the second quarter and never recovered in losing on the road for the first time.