Arizona State escapes Iowa State comeback attempt after Jeff Sims gem tainted by 3 turnovers

Arizona State escaped Iowa State with a 24-19 win on Saturday, as the Cyclones’ late comeback attempt came up one yard short on a critical fourth down.

ASU clinched bowl eligibility with the win and stayed alive in the Big 12 title race by staying at two conference losses, as previously unbeaten Houston fell to West Virginia, ASU’s next opponent after a bye week, earlier in the day.

Jeff Sims had an excellent performance in relief of Sam Leavitt, rushing 29 times for 228 yards and two touchdowns with 177 passing yards on 13 of 24 passing and a touchdown. His only blemishes were three turnovers after previously having none as a Sun Devil.

Iowa State had a fourth-and-6 at the ASU 25 needing a touchdown to pull ahead, and while its pass was completed, it was for five yards and short even after review.

What late gamble by Arizona State led to Iowa State’s momentum late?

ASU led 24-19 as it faced a fourth-and-3 just inside the red zone with 8:55 left. Instead of attempting a roughly 35-yard field goal to potentially take an eight-point lead, the Sun Devils put all their chips on trying for the two-score lead.

It appeared the play call was just what the doctor ordered, as Raleek Brown had a free lane to the touchdown. However, the throw from Sims was deflected at the line, giving the Cyclones the ball on their 18.

On Iowa State’s next play, tight end Benjamin Brahmer was knocked out of the game after a hard hit from Keith Abney II. Brahmer initially ran off the field but collapsed, and was then carted off.

On the next play, Rocco Becht threw an interception to give ASU possession with 8:42 left and the same five-point lead.

Sims then fumbled three plays later, not able to withstand a second hit on the play despite crossing his arms over the ball. He lost a fumble and threw an interception late in the first half before bouncing back.

The ASU defense got a stop, thanks in part to a Justin Wodtly sack, but Sims and the offense couldn’t chew off enough clock on the ensuing drive, giving it back with 1:38 left. The Cyclones had several chunk gains before the fourth down stop.

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