TCU 45, ISU 21: What We Learned

[caption id="attachment_18224" align="alignright" width="300"]Photo by Will Leverett Photo by Will Leverett[/caption] Fractured Defense: Still a Concern. The Horned Frogs were lucky to hold the halftime lead because the defense was awful in the first half. That side of the ball has been a concern all season, and it’s trying to overcome the holes left by the five starters lost for the season. Denzel Johnson added to that list when he was called for targeting in the first half, and was ejected for the rest of the game. The defense was hurt by the replacements’ inexperience, and big plays continue to be a concern. The Horned Frogs allowed 252 yards and three touchdowns on Iowa State’s first four drives. The Cyclones executed a fourth down conversion, and their longest play of the season on the first two scoring drives. TCU should’ve allowed more points and yards by halftime, but it got a break when the Cyclones mishandled a second quarter play at the TCU 10. The fumble was the first of two turnovers forced by the Horned Frog D. Deficits don’t startle offense. TCU faced an unexpected road deficit for the second straight week, but Trevone Boykin knew what to do. He relied on receiver Josh Doctson, who finished with 10 receptions for 190 yards and two touchdowns. Doctson was injured in the first half and lost for a short time, but he returned for the Horned Frogs’ rally. TCU ran away with this game, and scored 31 unanswered after an early 21-14 hole. Another Road Test for the Horned Frogs. TCU is not at full form yet, but it’s experienced enough for a playoff push. The Horned Frogs have been tested in all four of their road games this season, and that will be to their advantage as the season progresses. It has some great wins, including tonight. Jack Trice Stadium is a difficult place to play when you’re chasing a national championship, just ask the 2011 Oklahoma State Cowboys. TCU overcame a rowdy first half crowd, and shut out the home team in the second half. Its winning resume also includes the season opener at Minnesota, a shootout in Lubbock, and an 18-point comeback in Manhattan. They will be ready when they travel to Stillwater and Norman for their final two road trips.