Names to know

David Veikune Hawaii defensive end

The 6-foot-3, 265-pound senior from Hawaii has been a terror behind the line of scrimmage from his spot on the left side of the defense. He is third on the team with 60 tackles, and that total includes 13.5 for loss and a team-high 6.5 sacks. The latter total could have been even higher, as Veikune has eight quarterback hurries in 11 games. He also has shown some versatility, with three pass breakups and four forced fumbles.

Tyree Toomer Washington State safety

One of the reasons the WSU defensive coaching staff went to the 3-3-5 alignment was to get this freshman on the field more. The 5-11, 188-pound safety from St. John Bosco High in Southern California wasn’t one of the Cougars’ most heralded recruits, but he’s become one of their most important. Since he entered the starting lineup three games ago, WSU’s defense has steadily improved, culminating in a second-half shutout during last week’s Apple Cup.

Greg Alexander Hawaii quarterback

When the Warriors opened their season at Florida, Alexander was the starting quarterback. But the junior college transfer didn’t hold that title for long, throwing two interceptions and being benched. Alexander waited patiently and, when called on against Nevada in the Warriors’ eighth game, he came off the bench and led a 38-31 comeback victory. He’s started since, and has gone 118 passes without an interception.