The defense performed at a high level, sans some miscommunications on the backend and the penalty bonanza. So choosing a true player of the week was a challenge.

In the end, the simplest method is to take a short cut and cheat. This week our player of the week is the front seven. Taking on a mobile quarterback and a high-level running back possed significant challenges for this front. With questions about pass rush and containing quarterback scrambles looming large after the Washington State debacle, this group stood tall.

The first, and only turnover, of the game was forced because a blitz got home forcing an errant throw. Throughout the game Sam Leavitt was uncomfortable, forced to make off platform throws and finding zero running lanes. Top-flight back Skattabo was neutralized entirely, forcing a lackluster passing attack from Leavitt to try and carry the day. With the kind of quarterbacks ahead, the ability to control the ground game is critical for Texas Tech to win. And against Arizona State, they got the job done handily.