It's a big clash in the Big 12 as the 17th ranked Kansas State Wildcats host the 11th ranked Oklahoma State Cowboys on Saturday. The Wildcats are 5-2 overall and 3-1 in the Big 12 while the Cowboys are 6-1 overall and 3-1 in the Big 12. They are both one game behind TCU. The Cowboys have won the last three matchups between the two, including a 31-20 win last season as a 6 point favorite. This game is listed as a pick 'em.
Two weeks ago, the Cowboys suffered their first loss of the season, a heartbreaking 43-40 to Big 12 rival TCU in double overtime. But they covered as a 5.5 point underdog. This week, the Cowboys bounced back in a big way, beating top 20 ranked Texas 41-34 at home as a 7 point underdog. It was their biggest win of the season and improved their record to 6-1 overall and 3-1 in the Big 12. This game was a shootout, as both teams gained more than 500 total yards each. But one thing really stood out in favor of Oklahoma State — third down conversions.
Spencer Sanders threw for 391 yards and hit Bryson Green with the game-winning touchdown pass with just over three minutes left to lead No. 11 Oklahoma State past No. 20 Texas 41-34 https://t.co/cPQszP7Ki0
— 960 The Ref (@960theref) October 23, 2022
The Cowboys converted 8 of 19 third downs while Texas was just 3 of 19 on third and fourth down conversions. This led to a 31-20 first down advantage for Oklahoma State. Also, Oklahoma State had three interceptions and won the turnover battle 3-2. And, I'd be remiss not to mention that Oklahoma State had 0 penalties, while Texas was penalized for 119 yards. Spencer Sanders had another fantastic game, going 34 for 57 for 391 yards and 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. Bryson Green hauled in 5 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown. He caught a 41 yard touchdown pass with 3:39 left in the game to give Oklahoma State the lead for good. Running back Dominic Richardson only gained 24 rushing yards, but had 3 touchdowns.