Lazard leads ISU past Memphis in Liberty Bowl
Cyclones get first bowl win since 2009
Cyclones get first bowl win since 2009
Cyclones get first bowl win since 2009
Allen Lazard caught 10 passes, including the decisive touchdown as the Iowa State Cyclones capped a historic season with a 21-20 win over Memphis in the Liberty Bowl Saturday.
Iowa State, playing in its first bowl game in five years, overcame adversity before and during the game to earn its fourth bowl win in school history. Prior to kickoff, vlog Sports learned Evrett Edwards would miss the game due to ineligibility and team captain Kamari Cotton-Moya would sit out due to a suspension.
Yet ISU (8-5) took an early 7-0 lead after Kyle Kempt connected with Hakeem Butler for a 52-yard touchdown.
Memphis responded with a touchdown drive of its own to tie the game later in the quarter, but Iowa State re-gained the lead on Joel Lanning's 2-yard run.
The Tigers converted a field goal as time expired in the first half, then took a 17-14 lead after Riley Ferguson found Phil Mayhue for a 36-yard touchdown.
But the Cyclones immediately responded with a 11-play, 85-yard drive, capped by Lazard's touchdown grab in the back of the end zone. The senior finished with a Liberty Bowl record 10 catches for 142 yards to earn MVP honors. His touchdown catch was his 10th of the season, setting a new school record.
ISU had a chance to put the game away in the fourth quarter, but David Montgomery fumbled just before crossing the goal line, giving the ball back to Memphis. It was the first fumble lost all season for the Cyclones.
Iowa State's defense rose to the occasion though, turning Memphis away on downs to seal the win.
Kempt finished with 314 yards passing and two touchdowns. Montgomery rushed for 52 yards on 24 carries.
Marcel Spears was named the game's Outstanding Defensive Player after recording 11 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and a sack.