Iowa State Cyclones vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders: Five players to watch

For once, a running back isn’t being featured for Iowa State’s opponent. The Texas Tech Red Raiders are nationally known for their air raid attack, and we’ll highlight their leading receiver (which is a tight end), an unknown threat, and a placekicker that’s just five field goals away from setting a TTU single-season record.

Jace Amaro (TTU tight end, #22, Jr.)

Sep 12, 2013; Lubbock, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders wide receiver Jace Amaro (22) rushes after a catch against the TCU Horned Frogs in the first quarter at Jones AT

Amaro leads the team in receptions (38) and yards (463). After just a three-catch game in the season opener, he’s hauled in eight or more catches per game and reeled in a 105.25 yard average.

Tad Ecby (ISU wide receiver, #6, So.)

It’s been a dream start for the sophomore that started a big day in the air for the Cyclones at Tulsa. He’s averaged 4.6 catches for 50.6 yards in his first three games, but caught just one ball for seven yards in the loss to Texas. Will he see a rise in production this week?

Bradley Marquez (TTU wide receiver, #4, Jr.)

Everyone will talk about Eric Ward, the receiver who’s led the Red Raiders for two years, but let me introduce Bradley Marquez for those that haven’t heard of him. He’s been a major threat on second down, catching 4 of 9 passes for 156 of his 292 total yards this season. He’s been a dangerous threat in the endzone late in the game too, catching three of his team-high four touchdowns in the second half.

Deon Broomfield (ISU strong safety, #26, Sr.)

If Iowa State wants to put the brakes on the air raid defense, Broomfield will have to come up with a big day. He’s broken up four passes and forced two fumbles already this season.

Ryan Bustin (TTU place kicker, #48, Jr.)

After missing seven of 24 field goal attempts last season, Bustin has made 13 of 15 attempts already this season. He tied the all-time record for a season with 17 last year.