For Iowa State, Week 1 carried no drama. The Cyclones entered as heavy favorites against South Dakota, and they handled business with precision. By halftime the score was 27–7. By the end of the third quarter it was 48–7, and the outcome had long been decided. The star of the night was quarterback Rocco Becht. Making his return as a seasoned starter, Becht looked sharp from the opening drive. He finished 19 of 20 passing for three touchdowns, showing complete command of the offense. Becht spread the ball around to seven different receivers, mixing in short rhythm throws with well-timed deep shots. His only incompletion came late in the second quarter, long after the game was out of reach. Iowa State’s offense piled up more than 500 total yards. Running backs Eli Sanders and Abu Sama combined for over 150 yards on the ground, and the line consistently pushed South Dakota off the ball. The balance kept the Coyotes guessing and left no chance for momentum to swing. On defense, the Cyclones were equally dominant. South Dakota managed only one scoring drive in the first half and never threatened again. Iowa State picked off two passes, both of which set up short fields for quick touchdowns. The pass rush lived in the backfield, recording four sacks and forcing hurried throws all night. By halftime, the result was all but secured. The second half became about execution and clean reps for reserves. Head coach Matt Campbell rotated younger players into the lineup, giving them valuable experience under the lights at Jack Trice Stadium. The crowd of more than 55,000 enjoyed a stress-free opener, roaring at every touchdown and interception as if the season had already taken flight. Campbell was satisfied with the efficiency. “Rocco was in total control tonight,” he told reporters afterward. “When your quarterback is that sharp, it makes everything else go. We still have work to do, but this was a great way to start the season.” For Iowa State fans, the performance was a reassurance that this team has the poise and maturity to compete in a deep Big 12. Becht’s development continues to be the anchor, and the defense looks as opportunistic as ever. For South Dakota, the game was an uphill battle from the start. The Coyotes found some success early on the ground but had no answer for Iowa State’s speed and physicality. They leave Ames with the paycheck that comes from playing a Power Five opponent but little else to build on from the scoreboard. The bigger picture for Iowa State is about momentum. A comfortable win in Week 1 does not guarantee success later, but it provides confidence and rhythm. The Cyclones executed cleanly, avoided major mistakes, and gave their starters a chance to show they can dominate lesser opponents. That foundation will be tested when conference play arrives. The Cyclones never allowed South Dakota to think about an upset. It was a statement of maturity, and it puts Iowa State in the right frame of mind heading into Week 2.