Wayshawn Parker's career-high 174 yards lifts Utah to win over Iowa State

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Wayshawn Parker broke off a 54-yard run on the game's opening play from scrimmage for his first of three touchdowns as No. 15 Utah Utes defeated the Iowa State Cyclones 31-17 Saturday to open up Big 12 play.

The Utes (4-0) came into the game knowing Parker would be a factor due to stormy weather in the forecast. But he understood the assignment and had a breakout game over the Cyclones.

Parker ended the day with 18 carries for 174 yards and two touchdowns. If that wasn't enough, he added five receptions for 65 yards and another score. Parker led the Utes in both rushing and receiving yards in his best performance.

The biggest story is how Parker took a step forward. “He is a complete back, which is why NFL scouts love this kid,” Scalley said about his running back. “Wayshawn is the guy that really sets the tone. He sets the tone for practice, he sets the tone for the game. For him to have success early was huge.”

This is an outstanding start for Utah first-year coach Morgan Scalley, who has his time working on all cylinders one-third of the way through the regular season. This is the third time in four years for the Utes to open the season at 4-0. Not bad after taking over for Kyle Whittingham, who left for Michigan.

“No one is going to put on their resume they were 4-0 at one point; it's how you finish," Scalley said after the game. "As awesome as that sounds, no one cares. We have things to correct. These guys played hard and played physical football against a physical team. A road win heading into a bye week is awesome."

Utah jumped out to a 24-3 halftime lead over Iowa State. Jaylen Raynor tried to stage a comeback for the Cyclones, making it a one-score game at 24-17 early in the fourth quarter. The ISU quarterback ran for a touchdown. However, the Utes' defense held tight and picked up stops when they needed them.

The Utes eventually pulled away from the Cyclones with a 61-yard drive ending with Devon Dampier's 13-yard TD pass to Parker. Jackson Bennett picked off Raynor on the first play of Iowa State's ensuing possession, sealing the game for Utah.

Dampier was 18-of-27 for 206 yards and two touchdowns. His tenth straight multi-score game, including the final six games last year. During the same time frame, the Utes have scored 30 or more points in those games, the longest active streak in the FBS of games scoring 30-plus points.

The Cyclones' offense couldn't find a rhythm early and failed to convert a third down on seven attempts in the first half. This was Utah's game plan being executed perfectly. The Utes wanted to come into Ames and set the tone early. No question they did just that.

Utah enters a bye week before hosting Kansas on Oct. 10.