AMES, Iowa --- UNI football faced a tough test against the defense of in-state rival Iowa State, dropping the 2023 season opener to the Cyclones on Saturday afternoon inside a blistering hot Jack Trice Stadium.
The Panthers would make strides offensively in the second half, but would be unable to overcome a difficult first half performance.
Iowa State struck first on UNI's opening possession with an 58-yard interception return for a touchdown on the game's fifth play from scrimmage, giving the Cyclones a quick 7-0 lead. The Panthers would force an ISU punt on its first offensive possession before the Cyclones scored their second touchdown of the day on a fourth-and-goal quarterback run from the one-yard line.