Preview
The Oklahoma State Cowboys (6-2, 3-2 Big 12) are set to face the Kansas State Wildcats (5-3, 3-2 Big 12) in a crucial Big 12 Conference matchup on Saturday, October 29th. Both teams are coming off of important wins and will be looking to continue their momentum.
Oklahoma State Preview
The Cowboys have been one of the most impressive teams in the Big 12 this season, led by quarterback Spencer Sanders. Sanders has thrown for 2,093 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just three interceptions while also rushing for 363 yards and five touchdowns. The Cowboys’ offense ranks among the top 15 in the nation in both passing and total yards per game.
Defensively, Oklahoma State has been solid, allowing just 20.4 points per game. The Cowboys’ pass defense has been particularly impressive, allowing just 177.6 passing yards per game.
Kansas State Preview
The Wildcats have exceed expectations this season under first-year head coach Chris Klieman. Kansas State has won three of its last four games, including a impressive 31-12 win over TCU last week.
Kansas State’s offense is led by quarterback Skylar Thompson. Thompson has thrown for 1,653 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions this season. The Wildcats also have a solid running back in Deuce Vaughn, who has rushed for 711 yards and four touchdowns.
Defensively, Kansas State has been solid, allowing just 22.2 points per game. The Wildcats’ pass defense has been particularly stingy, allowing just 171.3 passing yards per game.
Prediction
This is a tough matchup to call, but Oklahoma State is the slight favorite. The Cowboys have a more experienced and talented team, and they are playing at home. However, Kansas State is a well-coached team that is playing with a lot of confidence. If the Wildcats can control the tempo of the game and keep Sanders from making big plays, they have a chance to pull off the upset.
Prediction: Oklahoma State 24, Kansas State 20
Key Matchups
Spencer Sanders vs. Kansas State’s pass defense
Sanders is one of the best quarterbacks in the Big 12, but Kansas State’s pass defense has been one of the most impressive units in the conference. This will be a key matchup to watch.
Deuce Vaughn vs. Oklahoma State’s run defense
Vaughn is a shifty and elusive running back who can make defenders miss in the open field. Oklahoma State’s run defense has been solid this season, but Vaughn will be a tough test.
Kansas State’s offensive line vs. Oklahoma State’s pass rush
Kansas State’s offensive line has been a bit inconsistent this season, but they will need to play well to protect Thompson from Oklahoma State’s pass rush. The Cowboys have one of the best pass rushes in the Big 12, led by defensive end Brock Martin.
X-Factors
Home-field advantage
Oklahoma State is playing at home in this game, which is a big advantage. The Cowboys have a passionate fan base that will be creating a lot of noise on Saturday.
Weather
The weather forecast for Stillwater, Oklahoma on Saturday is calling for rain. If the weather is bad, it could slow down both offenses and make it a more difficult game to play.
Injuries
Both teams are relatively healthy heading into this game, but injuries could play a factor. If either team loses a key player, it could have a big impact on the outcome of the game.
Conclusion
This is a big game for both Oklahoma State and Kansas State. The Cowboys are looking to stay in the race for the Big 12 title, while the Wildcats are looking to continue their momentum and make a statement in the conference. It should be a close and exciting game, and it could come down to the final play.