Sims Rushes for Record 228, ASU Beats Iowa State

TEMPE, Ariz. — Jeff Sims introduced himself to the Arizona State faithful in spectacular fashion on Friday, September 1, rushing for an astounding 228 yards – a new program record for a quarterback – to lead the Sun Devils to a 24-19 victory over Iowa State in head coach Kenny Dillingham’s highly anticipated debut. Sims’ electrifying performance served as the catalyst for a triumphant start to a new era of ASU football.

The transfer quarterback from Georgia Tech shattered the previous school record of 144 rushing yards by a signal-caller, a mark set by Taylor Kelly against USC in 2013. Sims carved up the Cyclones’ defense with a series of explosive plays, including a dazzling 66-yard touchdown run in the first half and another impressive 44-yard dash that set up one of Dario Longhetto’s two successful field goals. His ability to extend plays and break tackles consistently kept the Iowa State defense on its heels, accounting for a significant portion of the Sun Devils’ offensive output.

For Kenny Dillingham, the youngest head coach in FBS, the victory marked a dream start to his tenure. A Phoenix native and ASU alumnus, Dillingham’s return to lead the program has been met with significant excitement, especially as the Sun Devils look to turn the page on a challenging period marked by coaching changes and NCAA investigations. Sims, a key acquisition from Georgia Tech via the transfer portal, perfectly embodied the dynamic, up-tempo offense Dillingham aims to implement, providing an immediate jolt of energy and optimism for the fanbase.

Arizona State’s scoring was a blend of Sims’ ground game and reliable kicking. Beyond Sims’ 66-yard touchdown, Longhetto converted field goals from 33 and 23 yards out, contributing crucial points. The Sun Devil defense also rose to the occasion with pivotal plays. Shamari Simmons forced a fumble that Anthonie Cooper recovered, halting a potential Iowa State drive, and cornerback Trae Pierce picked off Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht in the second half, stifling another threat. These defensive stands were instrumental in maintaining ASU’s lead throughout the game.

Iowa State’s offense, led by sophomore quarterback Rocco Becht, showed flashes of potential. Becht finished with 220 passing yards and a touchdown, connecting with his receivers effectively at times. The Cyclones also found some success on the ground, with Cartevious Norton gaining 69 yards and Abu Sama III adding 57. Despite trailing 24-9 at one point, Iowa State mounted a determined comeback attempt late in the game, narrowing the score to 24-19, but ultimately couldn’t overcome Sims’ record-setting day and Arizona State’s clutch defensive plays.

The Sun Devils (1-0) will look to build on this momentum when they host Southern Utah next Saturday, September 9, at Mountain America Stadium. Iowa State (0-1) will return home to Ames to face Northern Iowa on the same day.