Instant Analysis: TU Takes Revenge On Iowa State, Wins Liberty Bowl

What it means for TU:

It will be an extra-special New Years for the Golden Hurricane. The 31-17 win over Iowa State gives Tulsa its first Liberty Bowl title since 2005. The win also improves TU's record to 11-3, matching the school record for wins in a single season. In addition, it gives the Hurricane its first win over a BCS conference opponent in two seasons under Bill Blankenship.

Key to victory:

Coaching. Bill Blankenship had this squad prepared for 60 minutes of revenge. The team out-played ISU in every aspect, including keeping their cool, as the Cyclones committed multiple extra-curricular penalties. Also, Blankenship and his staff knew what it would take to win. Entering the game, TU was 10-0 on the season when running more than it passes, and 0-3 when passing more than it runs. Tulsa ran 60 times for 316 yards, while only calling 11 passes. Incredible execution by the Golden Hurricane to be able to physically impose their will on a Big-12 opponent.

It was over when:

TU's all-time interception leader Dexter McCoil snagged one last pass. With four minutes left, ISU was driving in desperation, when McCoil jumped in front of Steele Jantz' pass to put the final nail in the coffin. It was the 18th-career pick for McCoil, tying the Conference USA all-time record.

What changed?

Tulsa fell 38-23 in the season-opener in Ames, but this game was a whole new story. Linebacker Shawn Jackson was suspended for that game, but made up for it Monday afternoon. Jackson was an animal, racking up nine tackles and two sacks. The emergence of running back Alex Singleton also made a huge difference, as he totaled just three carries for one yard in the previous matchup. Throughout the season, TU realized just how dangerous Singleton was and began to give him heavy playing time. The senior went out with a bang, rushing for three touchdowns on the day.

What's next:

An offseason of celebration. TU will enter next season with high expectations and should have enough talent left to live up to them. For now though, it's a tremendous end to 2012 for the Golden Hurricane.