Sportsvival had a tough job picking this week’s Impact HVAC Player of the Week. In a game defined by a stout SMU secondary and a handful of explosive plays, TCU wide receiver Eric McAlister claimed the honor after hauling in 8 receptions for 254 yards and three touchdowns in a 35–24 Horned Frogs victory on September 20, 2025. McAlister’s contested-catch prowess and open-field speed produced critical field-flipping moments throughout the contest.
Through his first two outings McAlister entered with just five receptions for 66 yards, working tirelessly in blocking but seeing little return on his effort. His 254-yard eruption vaulted him squarely onto scouting radars, confirming that TCU possesses a true vertical weapon.
Quarterback Josh Hoover and McAlister were unstoppable on Saturday. McAlister’s 70-yard catch-and-run with 9:18 left put TCU ahead to stay, and he followed that up by out-running his coverage on a 44-yard touchdown three minutes later, shifting momentum firmly in the Horned Frogs’ favor. His blend of speed, body control, and contested-catch ability makes him a matchup nightmare opponents simply can’t ignore.
Just Missed the Cut
RB – Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame: 19 carries, 157 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns
QB – Fernando Mendoza, Indiana: 21-of-23 passing, 267 yards, 5 touchdowns
RB – Waymond Jordan, USC: 18 carries, 157 rushing yards, 0 touchdowns
DL – Tyrique Tucker, Indiana: 4 tackles, 2 sacks
LB – Mohamad Toure, Miami: 10 tackles, 1 sack
While each finalist delivered high-impact performances, McAlister’s huge yardage , consistent connection with Hoover, and three scoring strikes set him apart. His breakout outing gives TCU an increasingly dangerous vertical threat as Big 12 play intensifies.
(photo courtesy of TCU Athletics)