Mike Banks has been a stalwart for the ISU offense all year.

Whether catching passes, blocking, or doing end around reverses, the senior captain has been someone the Iowa State players and coaching staff can count on to get the job done everytime he is out on the field.

Last year in Iowa State’s huge 33-27 win over Oklahoma State, Banks came up huge with 4 catches for 71 yards and a few bone crunching blocks as well. This season, playing in his last homecoming game in front of the Iowa State fans, “Manimal” still has some unfinished business to attend to.

Despite a stellar career, Banks has yet to catch pass for a touchdown, something that would be a great way to cap off his final homecoming game.

“It would be real nice, especially if front of the home fans,” Banks said.

With seven starters returning on the Oklahoma State defense, including leading tackler in linebacker Dwaye Levels, Banks and company will have to have the offense in high gear in order to run their record to 5-1 with a win on Saturday.

“They have a bunch of tough physical guys,” Banks said.

Following the loss to Nebraska, ISU went into the Missouri game knowing they would need to rebuild their confindence to win a game like the Oklahoma State game.

In a game which Banks did a little bit of everything, the Cyclone offense did just enough to win.

“I think I am somebody that can make plays for the offense and can keep drives going and the coaches know that,” Banks said. “It was important for us to keep back on track against Mizzou.”

With games at Texas A&M and home dates with Kansas State and Colorado just around the corner, Iowa State is now entering into the toughest part of the schedule which makes the Cowboy game a must if they want to build momentum to carry them through the season.

“We definitely need this win this weekend,” Banks said. “We are focusing on these guys and will not take them likely come Saturday.”

Other than a touchdown catch, there is one homecoming wish Banks would like to see come true of Saturday.

“I can’t remember a game where there hasn’t been an empty seat and I would love to see a full house on Saturday,” Banks said. “It would mean a lot, especially for my senior year.”