You can't lose in the Big 12 and still win.
But can the refs help out our paper tiger d?
This game is flying under the radar. Two undefeated teams that should be top 10.
Absolutely. I don't think many people believe OSU is legit because we were 6-6 last year, but here we are. The team is legit if you ask me, regardless of how close some of these games have been.
I don't get how Oklahoma State is undefeated and still ranked 12th. I mean, I know why it's the case, but do you really think Florida, Iowa, or MSU are better than Oklahoma State?
Because we were 6-6 last year and began the year unranked, plus the fact we've not really been impressive in our wins. However, we do boast a top ten scoring offense (that seems to be coming together) and an exceptional defense by Big 12 standards.
"But they gave up 46 offensive points to Texas Tech!!!"
Sure, yeah, but there's more to it than that (there always is). You can look at yards per play, yards allowed, whatever. The fact is we played a horrible first half: the worst since allowing KSU to score 28 in the first half. This team makes some great second half adjustments defensively, allowing 10 points per game in the second half, including a second half shutout of UT, holding KSU to 6 points in the second half, and holding Texas Tech to 15 points in the second half (with a third quarter shutout). The second half score was 42-15 in favor of Oklahoma State, which is pretty impressive.
While 15 is still a lot, especially for a single quarter with a defense I've claimed to be "exceptional" or "elite," that's still pretty impressive considering we were without our two best corners, our best linebacker, and one of the Big 12's best defensive ends. With a two score lead late in the fourth, a bunch of crucial players missing, and the game seemingly in hand, we went into a conservative approach on defense. Of course you want to stop the opp but making them drive the length of the field and chewing up clock is acceptable all things considered.
Anyway, my thoughts on the game:
It sounds as if we'll have Kevin Peterson, Ashton Lampkin (both corners) and Jimmy Bean (DE opposite Ogbah having a good season) all back for this one which is important. This will be the best defense TCU has faced all season, especially when it comes to pass rushing, rush defense, and team speed. Boykin, Doctson, Listenbee, Turpin, and Green will all make plays, but the key is limiting those plays and keeping Boykin in the pocket, and our own offensive success.
I'm expecting a great game. Something like 38-28 wouldn't surprise me going either way, but I'm going to homer and say we beat them by two or three scores, assuming our defensive starters are all good to go.
If we win: watch out. In my opinion, the TCU game is our biggest obstacle. Baylor is going to be playing a true freshman QB on the road in what would probably be a night game should both teams be undefeated. OU has looked better against inferior opponents, but are their issues really solved? There's a lot to find out about these four teams over the next couple of weeks.
