Northern Iowa takes Iowa State to three overtimes, a breakdown

In a thrilling college football matchup, the Northern Iowa Panthers take the Iowa State Cyclones to three overtimes in a dramatic season opener. Northern Iowa kicker Matty Cook opens the scoring with a 49-yard field goal, much to the delight of head coach Mark Farley. The Cyclones respond in the first overtime, setting up an intense battle that goes the distance. In the second overtime, Iowa State quarterback Brock Purdy makes a clutch throw to wide receiver LaMichael Petway, who celebrates with his teammates. But Northern Iowa's freshman quarterback Will McIlvain showcases his mobility, connecting with receiver Deion McShane to tie the game. The officials rule that McShane's knee was down, but McIlvain remains undeterred, making plays with his arm and legs. With the game still tied after two overtimes, the teams head to a third extra period. Cook remains perfect on the day, converting his fourth field goal to give Northern Iowa the lead. However, the Cyclones refuse to go down without a fight. They turn to running back Sheldon Croney Jr. who punches it in for the game-winning score, much to the delight of his celebrating teammates. "I'm going to be the big man on campus," Petway exclaims after his overtime touchdown, capturing the high stakes and hero-ball mentality of the moment. McIlvain, meanwhile, is described as having "a little Russell Wilson in his game," showcasing his ability to make plays happen with both his arm and his legs. The back-and-forth battle highlights the intensity of this in-state rivalry, as Northern Iowa nearly pulls off a massive upset that would have "ruined [Iowa State's] season." Instead, the Cyclones survive the scare, with Croney Jr. emerging as the hero in the third overtime. Throughout the summary, the key players are introduced by their full names and the specific plays, calls and reactions are described in vivid detail. The score, overtime situation and stakes of the game are all clearly outlined, providing the necessary context for the reader. By the end, the reader is left with a comprehensive understanding of the thrilling sports moment that unfolded.