The Cyclones are coming off their first Big 12 win of the season and are looking for another one as they face No.8 BYU in Provo on Friday evening (9:15 CDT, ESPN). But it won't come easy. Iowa State will need key players to step up to have a chance in this one. Who could it be?

Here are three Cyclones to keep an eye on against the Cougars.

Iowa State quarterback Jaylen Raynor played great last week in his game against West Virginia, completing 19 of 27 passes (70.4% completion rate) for a season-high 264 yards and a touchdown. Raynor’s ability to take what the defense was giving him was the key to his success on Saturday.

Raynor's ability to play efficient football is crucial as he prepares to play against BYU, led by coordinator Kelly Poppinga. BYU is known for its tough and physical defense. The Cougars have also shown to have a very opportunistic secondary by intercepting six passes over the first four games of the season while also showing the ability to close passing lanes holding opposing quarterbacks to a 63.3% completion rate on their attempts and they are limited to short windows, averaging only 6.0 yards per pass. Raynor will need to repeat his recent performance to help the Cyclones pull off an upset victory.

The former walk-on is coming off a huge game where he was able to show off his versatility. Thanks to the innovative play calling from offensive coordinator Tyler Roehl, Flora and the offense excelled. Flora had 22 carries for 212 yards (9.6 YPC) and scored three rushing touchdowns, including a game-winning two-yard score with 1:57 left in the fourth quarter. Flora also contributed in the passing game, throwing two touchdowns.

Replicating last week's performance will be difficult against this physical BYU front. The Cougars have been great all season at limiting opposing offenses in the run game, allowing only 75.0 rushing yards per game and 2.7 yards per carry, putting them in the top 15 nationally in run defense. For the Cyclones to find success on the ground, Roehl will need to reach deep in the playbook and get innovative with the run scheme. So keep an eye on Flora, as he needs to be able to make an impact on the game in order for the Cyclones to have success.

Facing a BYU defense that has been great against the run, look for the Cyclones to try to open up the run game with the passing game. With the 6-foot-5 receiver Dominic Overby having more and more opportunity and production (6 receptions, 112 yards, and a touchdown) over the past two weeks, look for him to be utilized in this one. His frame and body control make him a dangerous weapon on the outside, and if the Cyclone offense can use him early and often, he could make an impact on this game.

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