Jeremiah Cooper’s early pick-six sets the defensive tone in Iowa State's 30-9 win over Northern Iowa

AMES, Iowa -- , Jeremiah Cooper 's two first-half interceptions set the tone for Iowa State's 30-9 win over Northern Iowa on Saturday, easing the pressure on a Cyclones offense rocked by suspensions and departures. Cooper returned his first career interception 58 yards for a touchdown on the fifth play from scrimmage. His second pick set up Chase Contreraz 's 56-yard field goal just before halftime, giving Iowa State a 23-0 cushion. “It's unexplainable,” Cooper said. “My first college interceptions, so this is something I can't even describe. I'm just forever grateful for it.” The Cyclones were missing several projected starters due to a state gambling investigation, including quarterback Hunter Dekkers , who threw for 3,044 yards and 19 touchdowns last year. Rocco Becht handled most of the quarterback duties Saturday, completing 10 of 13 passes for 113 yards and two touchdowns.