Iowa State: Tarique Milton (WR)

I debated between putting Milton and Charlie Kolar here, but I went for Milton because Kolar usually has an effect on in each game in terms of moving the chains with his catches, but recently Milton has been on the receiving end of some big plays in recent weeks.

Against Texas, he caught the 49-yard touchdown pass from fellow wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson, a 68-yard bomb from quarterback Brock Purdy against West Virginia and made a huge 33 yard reception in Oklahoma State game that set up the short four yard go-ahead rushing touchdown from Breece Hall, giving Iowa State the 24-21 win. 

Whether it’s intentional design, coincidence or whatever you want to call it, Milton’s been there for the Cyclones when his name has been called in recent weeks.

Milton has touchdowns in back-to-back games, and with the Texas Tech defense likely focusing heavily on stopping receiving options such as Charlie Kolar and Xavier Hutchinson, as well as the Breece Hall running attack, this leaves a huge opportunity for Milton to score on a Texas Tech defense that is allowing 260 yards a game through the air (second worst in the Big 12) and 22 (the most in the Big 12) passing touchdowns.

Texas Tech: Tyree Wilson (DE)

If Texas Tech wants to have a shot of stopping Iowa State’s offense, I think it needs to try to find a way to create pressure on Iowa State quarterback Brock Purdy.

Look for Texas Tech to try to free up its leading pass rusher Tyree Wilson. 

Wilson leads the Red Raiders in sacks with five, which is ninth best the Big 12. He also has a team high 10 tackles for loss.

Wilson has gotten into the backfield frequently in his last three games, averaging two TFL’s and one sack in that stretch. 

The 6’6 275 pound defensive end could create some problems for Iowa State on the edge. But if he and the rest of the Red Raider defensive line can’t get going, it could be a long day for the Texas Tech defense.