Iowa State
Jaylin Noel, Wide Receiver
Noel has been one of quarterback Rocco Becht’s favorite targets this season, and it should come as no surprise. Known for his speed and big play ability, Noel leads the Cyclones in reception yards and can complete a milestone against Utah.
Throughout the first 10 games, Noel has amassed 935 receiving yards, 75 of those being a touchdown in the second game of the season against Iowa.
At an average of 93.5 yards per game, Noel has a big opportunity ahead to reach 1,000 receiving yards this season: he was 180 yards away from the milestone last season.
Utah is fifth in the Big 12 in pass defense, so it could be a challenge, but is obtainable nonetheless.
Malik Verdon, Defensive Back
Verdon leads the Cyclones with 62 total tackles this season, along with fellow defensive back Beau Freyler. He also has defended five passes, reeled in an interception and forced a fumble.
Utah has had quarterback trouble this season and sits 11th in the Big 12 in passing offense. That will prove to be tough for the Utes, especially considering the Cyclones have the best pass defense in the conference.
With an experienced player like Verdon, who has proven he can be everywhere he needs to be and make big tackles, he should no doubt have a big impact Saturday.
Beau Freyler, Defensive Back
Like Verdon, Freyler is a tackle leader for Iowa State. Regarding solo tackles, Freyler is the sole leader for the Cyclones with 35.
Now in his senior season, Freyler has been a massive piece for the Iowa State defense. His ability to play deep as a safety or a bit closer, like a linebacker, showcases his versatility and the type of impact he can make.
He has two interceptions this season and could be in a position to add a third Saturday.
Utah
Lander Barton, Linebacker
Utah is not the best team offensively, but defensively, it has some weapons. One of those is Barton, who leads the Utes with 64 total tackles.
His highest game total was 12 in the Utes’ 17-14 loss to Houston. In Big 12 games, Barton has had five or more tackles in every game.
Barton will no doubt be a difference maker for Utah in both stopping the Iowa State pass and run.
Van Fillinger, Defensive End
Fillinger is one of the best defensive ends in the Big 12. He is third in the conference in sacks with six and has done that over nine games rather than 10, being the number Utah has played.
The previous high sack total Fillinger had in an entire season was 5.5 back in 2021. It is safe to say he has been a bright spot for Utah this season.
Iowa State’s offensive line has given up 14 sacks this season, so Fillinger may break through at least once Saturday.
Isaac Wilson, Quarterback
Wilson, brother of NFL quarterback Zach Wilson, is one of four players to be in at quarterback for Utah this season. In eight games played, he has thrown 10 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
Wilson has completed 54.8% of his passes and has 1,436 passing yards.
Given that Iowa State has the best pass defense in the Big 12, Wilson will have the toughest test of his young career, considering he is only a freshman.
