After defeating Kansas 27-17 last week, TCU (3-3) looks to pull off the upset against No. 21 Oklahoma State (4-1), who comes into the game after a bye week.
Here’s who to watch for the game:
TCU
B.J. Catalon, Running Back, Sophomore
Catalon bounced back from his worst game of the season two weeks ago to post impressive numbers against Kansas. He rushed 12 times for 91 yards, an average of 7.6 yards per carry, and scored a touchdown in last weekend’s homecoming game. Catalon has also been increasingly active on special teams and kick returns, where his speed can turn any return into a big play. Watch on Saturday to see if the Houston native makes use of his explosive abilities against OSU.
Brandon Carter, Wide Receiver, Junior
Carter was expected to be TCU’s No. 1 receiver heading into the season after posting six touchdown receptions last season, but he has been underwhelming so far this year. Carter’s inconsistency and turnover issues, especially on punt returns, have cooled expectations. However, he still remains a very threatening option for Boykin. Oklahoma State has the league’s second-worst pass defense, and Carter is bound to have a breakout game at some point. If Carter steps up, Saturday’s game could be a positive catalyst for the rest of his season.
Kevin White, Cornerback, Junior
White has seen plenty of action at corner this season, as teams have consistently avoided throwing near senior All-American Jason Verrett. However, White’s success in man-to-man coverage this season has been important to TCU’s defensive success. It is likely that he will be heavily called on again this weekend against an Oklahoma State passing attack that averages over 300 yards per game. If White can shut down the receivers on his side of the ball, OSU quarterback J.W. Walsh may be forced to throw towards Jason Verrett, which is almost always a good sign for Horned Frog fans.
OSU
J.W. Walsh, Sophomore, Quarterback
After an incredible freshman season that saw him win Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors, J.W. Walsh has picked up right where he left off. Known for his incredible athleticism, Walsh has the ability to beat teams through the air or on the ground, and he can be a headache for opposing defenses. This year, through the first five games of the season, Walsh has amassed 1,209 passing yards and has thrown for nine touchdowns. Additionally, he leads the Cowboys in rushing, carrying the ball 52 times for 265 yards. After leading the Cowboys to a comeback win against Kansas State just two weeks ago, Walsh will look to maintain momentum against the Horned Frogs.
Caleb Lavey, Senior, Linebacker
One of the leaders of the Oklahoma State defense, Caleb Lavey has been on a tear through his first five games this season, racking up 40 total tackles, 25 of which have been solo efforts. On pace to surpass his total from a season ago of 53 tackles, Lavey is a menace on the defensive side of the ball, both in run and pass defense. Lavey and the rest of the OSU defense will make things extremely difficult for a TCU offense that cannot seem to find a rhythm. With Lavey and the OSU defense looming on Saturday, Horned Frog fans may have to wait another week to see an offensive revelation from their team.
Tracy Moore, Senior, Wide Receiver
After having his 2012 season cut short due to injury, Tracy Moore has returned in 2013 for his fifth season and is looking to make up for lost time. Through the first five games this season, Moore ranks third in receiving with 18 receptions for 218 yards and a touchdown. After a breakout game against Kansas State two weeks ago in which he reeled in six catches for 52 yards, Moore is establishing himself as one of OSU’s core receivers along with junior Josh Stewart and sophomore Brandon Sheperd. With cornerback Jason Verret most likely matching up against Stewart, look for Moore to be a frequent target on Saturday
