Dakota Allen

The ‘Last Chance U’ star developed into Texas Tech’s defensive leader upon his return to Lubbock, Texas. Allen leads the Red Raiders in tackles with 40, including 26 solo tackles and 4.5 tackles for a loss. Last season, Allen jolted the Texas Tech defense, contributing 101 tackles, a pair of interceptions, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble.

Outside of a shootout 63-49 win over Houston, Texas Tech struggles when it allows offenses to score. West Virginia knocked off the Red Raiders 42-34 and Ole Miss defeated Texas Tech 47-27 for Texas Tech’s two losses. Allen and the Red Raider defense will be key in slowing down the Cyclone offense and providing a cushion for the Texas Tech offense.

Greg Eisworth

With two potent offenses, it’s no coincidence the two players to watch are defenders. Texas Tech has scored 30 or more points in five of its seven games, and Iowa State’s offense looks brand new under freshman Brock Purdy. Both teams will likely throw points on the board, but the difference could be the defenses. If Iowa State’s defense manages to slow down Texas Tech and force a turnover or two, the Cyclones will be in a good position to win.

The Iowa State player to watch could’ve gone to a handful of players because the Cyclone defense is so balanced, but Eisworth has stood out in the first half of the season. The defensive back leads the team in tackles with 49 and has a knack for applying pressure on the quarterback. Expect Eisworth to fly around on Saturday and potentially disrupt the explosive Red Raider offense.