TCU Horned Frogs Defensive Players to Watch vs. Texas Longhorns

TCU football made headlines in 2022 because its offense found ways to mount comebacks en route to an undefeated regular season. 

It's defense? Not so much. 

While TCU ranked 90th nationally in scoring (29.2 points per game) and 95th in total yards (409.5 yards per game), it did have several bright spots. Dylan Horton became the first Horned Frog to record double-digit sacks since 2017. Three players totaled at least 80 stops in the open field, and the secondary did enough to keep the season's winning streak alive through the end of November. 

A full year in the system and much has improved. The Horned Frogs jumped 40-plus spots in scoring defense (57th) and 16 spots in total yards (79th). TCU ranks third in sacks among Big 12 teams, but still struggle to create turnovers with a -6 margain. 

While the unit has improved in several areas, there's still multiple blips in the game. The Horned Frogs continue to add sacks, but they struggle bringing down running backs behind the line. And the pass defense has been hit or miss.

Which version shows up Saturday when the Texas Longhorns come to town? 

Follow along with LonghornsCountry.com as we preview every aspect of Texas' matchup with the Horned Frogs throughout the week. First, here's a quick overview of the essential things to know before kickoff at Amon G. Carter Stadium come Nov. 11.

Now, let's take a look at the breakout players on display for Joe Gillespie's defense in his second season. 

Defensive Leaders

LB Namdi Obiazor

Obiazor leads the Horned Frogs in tackles (72) and sacks (4.0). He's also notched three 10-plus tackle games, including two in Big 12 play.

LB Jamoi Hodge

Hodge saw action as the third linebacker behind Johnny Hodges and Dee Winters. Now as the leading man, he's registered 51 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks. Last week against Texas Tech, Hodge broke up a pass to go along with eight stops.

LB Shad Banks Jr.

A wide receiver-turned-linebacker, Banks has been at his best when playing near the line of scrimmage. He leads the Horned Frogs with 5.5 tackles for loss and ranks fourth in total stops. He's a rotational player, but when on the field, he likely is working his way toward taking down running backs. 

S Mark Perry

Last season after transferring from Colorado, Perry started his TCU career off with four tackles against his former team. He then proceeded to be the vocal leader of the defense while racking up 84 stops and two pass deflections.

This season, he's been productive against the run but has struggled in coverage. Perry's recorded 40 tackles and three pass deflections, but also is a part of a secondary that's allowed 11 passing touchdowns. 

S Bud Clark 

Clark continues to be effective in creating turnovers. Last season, the sophomore led TCU in interceptions (5) and finished fourth in pass breakups (5). His stamp on the season came against Michigan in the Fiesta Bowl when his 41-yard pick-six set the tone for the matchup and gave TCU the early 7-0 lead. 

This season, it's similar results. Clark leads the Horned Frogs in both interceptions (2) and pass breakups (5). Clark has struggled defending the run, only recording two tackles at the line of scrimmage.