TCU @ Iowa State Game Thread: 3 Things To Look For

Iowa State stands between TCU and a 7-0 record tonight at 6:00 p.m. CT in Jack Trice Stadium. The Frogs, averaging the third most yards per game (616) and points (51) in the nation, go up against an Iowa State defense that ranks 102nd in the FBS in yards allowed (430) and 87th in points allowed (29.4) per game. If you've missed any of our coverage of the game, you can find it all here, in the story stream. And of course, don't forget to predict the score in a very formal way.

Here are three things to keep an eye on as TCU takes on the Cyclones.

1. Mike Warren in space

The freshman RB has come on strong in the past three games, and is a credible threat to TCU's less-than-stellar run defense. TCU has allowed 16 rushing touchdowns on the season, and Warren will be looking to feast on the undersized linebackers TCU employs. Montrel Wilson and Travin Howard absolutely must stay in their lanes and wrap up when they meet Warren on the field. Minimizing damage is crucial to getting off the field. Which leads us to point No. 2.

2. TCU defense on third down

TCU is allowing opponents to convert on third down at a 34% rate, which is pretty respectable all things considered. However, they allowed Kansas State to convert eight of 14 third down opportunities, most of which occurred in short down situations on the ground. Keeping Iowa State in third-and-long situations will go a long way to minimizing Warren's ground threat, and force Iowa State into their abysmal passing game.

3. Josh Doctson, record setter

Josh Docston is 12 receiving yards away from setting a new TCU record for receiving yards in a career, a record currently held by Mike Renfro (2,739). Doctson already holds the career records for receptions (186) and touchdowns (30), and looks to complete the trifecta against Iowa State.