Iowa State defensive back Beni Ngoyi just dropped an absolute stunner, pulling off a jaw-dropping one-handed interception against Southeast Missouri on Saturday that has everyone already calling it an early candidate for interception of the year. This wasn’t some fluke; this was a preposterous, show-stopping play that instantly gave the Cyclones defense a highlight reel moment in their 38-10 victory.
You Had To See This One-Handed Grab To Believe It
Alright, let’s talk about that play. It happened towards the end of the second quarter, and if you blinked, you probably missed Ngoyi doing his best impression of Odell Beckham Jr. This dude, a *defensive back*, tracked Braylen Ragland’s eyes the whole way on the throw, then went airborne. He made a ridiculous leaping attempt and somehow, incredibly, came down with the ball snagged in one hand. Seriously, it was that kind of play. Not only was it pure highlight material, but it was also a game-changer. That sensational grab gave Iowa State the ball back on their own 45-yard line, and the offense wasted zero time. They needed just three plays to march downfield and score, pushing their lead to a comfortable 28-7. It was one of those moments that makes you jump off the couch, screaming.
From Catching Passes To Snagging Picks: Who Is Beni Ngoyi?
Here’s where it gets even crazier about Beni Ngoyi. He’s a junior defensive back for Iowa State, hailing from Lincoln, Nebraska, but he didn’t start his college career on defense. Nope, Ngoyi actually converted from wide receiver to defensive back just last season. Think about that for a second. In 2023, he took a redshirt, and then in 2024, he only hauled in two receptions for 27 yards as a wideout. Ahead of the 2025 season, he made the switch to the defensive side of the ball. His cornerback coach, Mike Banks, was already talking him up back in August, noting how Beni was “starting to become more consistent on a daily basis,” especially with his technique and communication. Banks said getting into “the right spots all the time now” was his “biggest hurdle.” This kid was a three-star receiver prospect coming out of high school, getting offers from big schools like Nebraska, Kansas, and Minnesota. It’s clear he’s got athletic talent, but to make a play like *that* after switching positions? That’s just wild.
Watching Ngoyi make that kind of play in Week 1, especially after his journey from receiver to defensive back, you can’t help but get hyped. Iowa State is off to a strong start with that 38-10 win, and Ngoyi’s performance has set a ridiculously high bar for himself and for the rest of college football this season. You gotta wonder what other insane plays this guy has in store. Keep your eyes on Ngoyi, because if that interception is any indication, he’s just getting started.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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