In Ames, Iowa, the Sun Devils edged out the Cyclones 24–19 in a hard-fought Big 12 matchup. The first quarter was tight, as each team traded a field goal. Iowa State struck first, but Arizona State answered just before the quarter ended to tie the game at three. In the second quarter, Arizona State took control with two touchdowns to push ahead 17–10, though Iowa State pulled one back just before halftime to make it 17–16. In the third quarter Arizona State broke through again when quarterback Jeff Sims broke off an 88-yard touchdown run to extend the lead to 24–16. Iowa State managed a field goal at the end of the quarter to narrow the gap to 24–19, and neither team scored in the fourth quarter. With time winding down Iowa State drove into Sun Devils territory but failed to convert on fourth down and came away empty-handed. 

Sims was the standout, setting an Arizona State record for rushing yards by a quarterback by tallying 228 rushing yards and finishing with 405 total yards of offense while being involved in three touchdowns. The Sun Devils appeared sharper in discipline compared to their previous outing, and their ability to convert key plays helped them seal the game. For Iowa State, the discrepancy came in those critical moments where offense stalled or defensive lapses allowed the big play, such as the 88-yard run, and that ultimately proved decisive.

With this victory Arizona State improved its conference record to 4-2 and overall to 6-3, positioning themselves more favourably in the Big 12 race. Iowa State slipped to 2-4 in conference play and 5-4 overall, facing mounting pressure to regroup and correct their course.