During a thrilling matchup between Iowa State and Arizona State, the game took a dramatic turn when Iowa State tight end Benjamin Brahmer collapsed on the field after a brutal hit. The incident occurred in the fourth quarter, with the Cyclones trailing 24-19. Brahmer was tackled by Arizona State’s Keith Abney II, and he immediately fell to the turf, raising immediate concerns for his safety.
Training staff and medical personnel rushed to Brahmer’s aid, but he quickly lost his balance and was carted off the field. Head coach Matt Campbell expressed his concern, stating that Brahmer was hospitalized for precautionary reasons. However, the coaches remain optimistic, citing positive feedback from medical professionals. ‘So far the feedback we’ve gotten has been positive…it was tough to watch and Ben is as tough as they come,’ Campbell explained, according to KCCI.
Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht also voiced his sentiments, noting that he was relieved Brahmer was conscious and that the team would miss him. ‘We’re just happy that guy is all right. He’s conscious and we’ll miss that guy. He’ll be back better than ever,’ Becht said.
Meanwhile, Arizona State’s victory was highlighted by quarterback Jeff Sims’ remarkable performance. Sims set a new rushing record with 228 yards, finishing with 405 yards of total offense and contributing to three touchdowns. His 88-yard touchdown run in the third quarter marked the turning point, helping the Sun Devils secure the 24-19 win. The previous record was held by Mark Malone, who ran for 178 yards against Southern California in 1978.
The loss marked the Cyclones’ fourth consecutive defeat, as they were stopped just short of the end zone on fourth-and-6 with 16 seconds remaining. The game’s outcome was decided in favor of Arizona State, with their quarterback’s stellar performance overshadowing the drama on the field. The Associated Press contributed to this report.