TCU: Trevon Moehrig

In case you missed what Iowa State’s offense looked like against Louisiana in week one, let me save you the time with one simple word: ugly.

Based on the struggles I saw for Brock Purdy and his trouble connecting with his new receiving group, I don’t expect the issues to just magically disappear in two weeks of practice. And I expect Purdy or one of his targets to get clumsy, which is where Moehrig comes into play.

Moehrig was one of the best safeties in the country in 2019, bursting onto the scene with 62 tackles, four interceptions, two forced fumbles and 11 broken-up passes. Heading into the 2020 season, the junior made ESPN’s preseason All-America team to offer even bigger lights for the junior safety to shine in. 

I am not saying Moehrig will get his first pick of the year right off the bat, but don’t be surprised if you see his name breaking up passes and making the day difficult for Purdy and company.

Iowa State: Latrell Bankston

TCU is coming into this game very fresh. I think they’re a little too fresh for their own good. 

This game against Iowa State spells disaster on the offensive side for the Horned Frogs, particularly up front. Nothing points in their favor.

First game of the season while Iowa State has a game under its belt already: check. 

An inexperienced offense with way less talent than last season: check.

Going up against one of the best defensive lines in the conference: check.

Que Latrell Bankston’s number.

Bankston showed up in a big way in Iowa State’s season-opening loss to the Ragin’ Cajuns, recording his first sack as a Cyclone and tacking on three tackles for good measure. Bankston was close to adding on more numbers to his stat line against Louisiana, and I expect him and the rest of the defensive line to feast on this young offense.

TCU is going to want to get the ball out quickly to avoid the pressure, but sooner or later, Bankston and his friends on the defensive line will break through. I expect Bankston to finish with at least one sack and two tackles for loss. 

TCU is going to have a long day up front.