PLAYERS TO WATCH
–QB Zeb Noland struggled for most of the game last week against TCU, and his inexperience manifested itself in key situations where he was unable to stay poised in the pocket. But he did lead the team on a game-tying drive in the fourth quarter, giving himself something to build on heading into the Oklahoma State game.
–DE Will McDonald didn’t play a lot against TCU but the true freshman had the defensive play of the day with a sack and forced fumble. He could play a lot more against Oklahoma State — or he might not play at all. The coaching staff must decide whether to limit McDonald to the four-game maximum that would allow him to redshirt or to officially put him on the two-deep and give him a bigger role.
–DB Braxton Lewis has picked off a pass in each of the last two games. Oklahoma State’s Taylor Cornelius has thrown five interceptions through five games, so Lewis should get some chances to extend that streak.
–RK/KR Kene Nwangwu could get an expanded role in the Iowa State offense this week, depending on RB David Montgomery’s health. Even if doesn’t, he’ll continue to be a force on special teams. He enters the week with seven career returns of 40 yards or more.
SERIES HISTORY: Oklahoma State leads Iowa State 31-18-3. The Cyclones enter this week on a six-game losing streak to the Cowboys.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “It’s a balancing act in a lot of ways. When it’s critical situations, you want to put the ball in your best player’s hands. I’m not naive to that.”– Coach Matt Campbell, in the Des Moines Register, on managing David Montgomery’s workload and health.