Iowa State:
Benjamin Brahmer- Tight end
Along with the development of quarterback Rocco Becht, Brahmer has been his right-hand man at times with his ability to create space with his size and frame. Against Texas, the true freshman tight end had the most yards (49) in a game since Oct. 28 against Baylor, and the most receptions (4) since Sept. 23 against Oklahoma State.
While the main emphasis for Becht and the Iowa State offense has focused on getting the ball to its veteran wideouts, Brahmer has proven that he can make plays happen with the ball in his hands. He has averaged 12.8 yards per reception on his 25 snags this season, the second-highest among players with 20 or more catches.
Brahmer has displayed versatile route running and typically trustworthy hands, which has paved the way for him to be a reliable target for the Cyclones when targeted.
With the Wildcats boasting one of the best passing defenses in the Big 12, the Cyclones will need to turn to multiple options throughout the day if guys like Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel are covered.
Jeremiah Cooper- Defensive back
In his return against Texas after missing two games, Cooper’s name wasn’t called much outside of his forced fumble in the red zone during the first half. He finished the game with a pair of tackles after being held to a pitch count in terms of snaps.
In what could be his true comeback game, Cooper should see more time on the field against a Kansas State offense that leads the Big 12 in scoring offense (38.1). He has had a pass breakup in five of his eight games played this season, and has been a true impact player for the Iowa State defense when on the field.
The sophomore safety is responsible for six of the Cyclone takeaways this season, and will need to get back to his significant role on the defense to help Iowa State win the turnover battle.
Joey Petersen- Defensive end
After starting the season off slow, having five tackles through the first four games, Petersen has become more productive in conference play. In his last three games, the Iowa native has accumulated 16 total tackles including 2.5 sacks and eight solo wrap-ups.
Much like the Cyclones, Kansas State has had solid offensive line play throughout the season. The Wildcats have allowed 17 sacks, the sixth fewest in the Big 12, so do not expect to see Petersen and the rest of the Iowa State front seven to get into the backfield.
Along with the rest of the Cyclone defense, Petersen has played a vital role in holding down the run game during conference play. Iowa State has allowed 1,040 rushing yards against conference opponents, the second-fewest in the Big 12, and they will need to keep its mantra when they go into enemy territory against the Wildcats’ explosive run game.
Kansas State:
DJ Giddens- Running back
Part of Kansas State’s success on the ground is due to the emergence of Giddens, their sophomore tailback. In his eight games against Big 12 opponents, the Kansas native has rushed for 745 yards and eight rushing touchdowns on 128 attempts.
It has not mattered how many touches Giddens has been given in a game, he has shown off his play-making ability both through the air and on the ground. With 192 touches this season, he has compiled over 1,200 yards, with 961 yards on the ground and 10 total touchdowns.
Although the Cyclone defense has held its own against some of the best rushers in the Big 12, they will need to account for Giddens throughout the game. Iowa State has been known to give up big plays that have extended their opponents’ drives, and the Wildcats’ young tailback has been known for ripping off big gains as Giddens has nine games this season with either a run or catch going for 15 or more yards.
Austin Moore- Linebacker
If Iowa State attempts to get the run game going early on like they have all season, they likely will not find success if Moore continues to be the anchor for the Wildcats’ defense.
Outside of leading Kansas State in total tackles, with 58 on the season, Moore has lived in the backfield against conference opponents. The Kansas native has six tackles for loss against conference opponents and has helped the Wildcats hold teams to 1,274 yards on the ground, the third-fewest in the Big 12.
The senior linebacker is having the best season of his collegiate career and has one game this season with fewer than four total tackles.
Jacob Parrish- Cornerback
Rounding out the notable Kansas natives to watch out for is one of the most underrated young corners in the Big 12. Parrish was responsible for keeping the Wildcats in their affair with Texas when he picked off Maalik Murphy twice in their eventual overtime loss.
While he has not been much of a takeaway machine outside of the game against Texas, Parrish has been a pesky player even when he is not making a play on the ball. He has compiled eight pass breakups in seven games against conference opponents, although he has not had any in the last two games.
In his first season as a starter, Parrish has been crucial in the Kansas State secondary. The Wildcats have allowed the second-fewest passing yards in the Big 12 (1,739), and have the third-most interceptions with 11, one of which was returned for a touchdown.
