We’re counting down the top 50 most important college football players in Texas, and we keep the train rolling with our third installment. 

This group features a defensive anchor on a national championship squad, as well as two players changing the game in El Paso. Receivers were well-represented in the middle class, but a quarterback will make his case as well. 

Choosing the most “important” players is never easy, especially when comparing different positions. We take into account role and production. But more importantly, the most important players are defined by how much they can make or break a team’s season. 

Here is part three of our list of the most important college football players in Texas. Make sure and read Part One and Part Two. 

30. RB Deion Hankins, UTEP

In his first year as a starter, Hankins rushed for 592 yards and nine touchdowns on 4.9 yards per carry in just seven games. His aggressive, physical style of running allowed him to create opportunities even against defenses that were keying in on the run. Gavin Hardison developing at quarterback should be enough for Hankins to push for 1,000 yards. 

29. DL Jahari Kay, Sam Houston

For all the attention Sam Houston’s offense gets, its defensive development is why the Bearkats ascended to championship level. Kay, a consensus All-American First Team member, is a key reason why. The senior posted 13.5 tackles for loss and six sacks in a versatile role up front. 

28. WR Erik Ezukanma, Texas Tech

Texas Tech produces great receivers and the Fort Worth native is next in line. Ezukanma posted 1,412 yards and 10 touchdowns over the past two seasons despite wildly inconsistent quarterback play. Now, he’ll anchor the receiver unit as Tyler Shough likely tries to bring some stability to the position.  

27. DT Dion Novil, North Texas

Not many North Texas defenders were considered for this list, but Novil is a consistent force in the middle of the line. The Abilene native posted 21 tackles for loss and six sacks from the interior over the past two years, and there were games where he took over. With more help in a four-down front, Novil’s numbers should only get better. 

26. WR Bradley Rozner, Rice

It’s been a minute after Rozner opted out of 2020 due to COVID-19, but the Needville product was a game-changer his first year in Houston. On a team that ranked No. 118 in passing offense because of quarterback injuries, Rozner led the way with 770 yards and five touchdowns. If Rice figures out that position, Rozner will be a breakout player of 2021. 

25. DL Siaki Ika, Baylor

Players like Ika don’t usually end up at Baylor. The LSU transfer was a top priority for Dave Aranda this offseason at nose tackle. He showed why the staff was so excited about him in the spring game. Expect Ika to dominate the interior and create opportunities for Baylor’s pass rushers. 

24. CB Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, TCU

Hodges-Tomlinson ranked as one of the top cornerbacks in the nation in Pro Football Focus’s rankings and will take another step forward in his third year. The Waco native posted 13 pass breakups last season to just 26 tackles. With Trevon Moehrig and Ar’Darius Washington off to the league, Hodges-Tomlinson steps in as perhaps the Big 12’s best defensive back. 

23. WR Jacob Cowing, UTEP

One of the most underrated receivers in the state of Texas, Cowing posted 1,241 yards and six touchdowns in 19 games despite inconsistent quarterback play. Perhaps more important, Cowing averages 17.2 yards per catch in his two-year career. With more development under center, Cowing’s numbers could quickly exploded. 

22. QB Brady McBride, Texas State

Despite an inconsistent season due to COVID-19, McBride showed flashes of brilliance. In his best performance, McBride outdueled Arkansas State’s combo quarterbacks with 443 yards, five touchdowns and zero picks in a two-point win. He also played well in close games against SMU and Boston College. With a full offseason, expect big things. 

21. RB Ulysses Bentley IV, SMU

Bentley entered the season as a part-time runner next to TJ McDaniel. But when McDaniel suffered a season-ending injury on the second play of the season, Bentley took charge. The Houston native rushed for 913 yards and 11 touchdowns in a breakout season. Now that the coaching staff can be more selective with his carries, expect his efficiency to explode.