Big 12 Football Week 9 Breakdown
#9 Oklahoma vs. #8 Kansas State
Oklahoma really took a hit last week in their loss to Texas Tech. Their BCS Championship hopes have gone from being expected to being hoped for. Meanwhile, Kansas State has risen in the polls to a point that nobody expected. The Wildcats play within themselves. Their play calling suits their skill set. But this week will be a reality check for Kansas State. Landry Jones and the Oklahoma Sooners aren’t going to let their season slip away. They have a lot to prove and the first step to recovery is beating undefeated Kansas State.
Predicted Winner: Oklahoma
#3 Oklahoma State vs. Baylor
Two great offenses will meet in Stillwater for a shootout. Oklahoma State saw their rival lose to Texas Tech last week. Their BCS Championship picture just got a lot clearer. But standing in their way is Robert Griffin III and the Baylor Bears. RG3 has hurled himself into Heisman talks by posting video game-like numbers. His completion percentage is in the high 70s and he has thrown 22 touchdowns to just two interceptions. Ultimately, their defense is the problem. The Bear’s defense let Texas A&M score on nine straight drives. That isn’t part of a winning formula. Oklahoma State will be too much to handle. Baylor just can’t keep up.
Predicted Winner: Oklahoma State
#16 Texas A&M vs. Missouri
Last year, Blaine Gabbert and the Missouri Tigers marched right into Kyle Field and embarrassed the Aggies 30-9. But Blaine Gabbert is gone. James Franklin is now the Tigers’ quarterback and he has a very different skill set. Franklin is a dual-threat quarterback, but he has thrown seven INTs this season. The Aggies are coming off of a win against Iowa State. Quarterback Ryan Tannehill has eclipsed 2000 yards this season and has thrown 15 touchdowns. But what really makes the Aggies offense work is their running game. Cyrus Gray and Christine Michael have combined for 15 touchdowns. The Aggies roll through this game and look to their next matchup against Oklahoma.
Predicted Winner: Texas A&M
#20 Texas Tech vs. Iowa State
Texas Tech might have two losses, but those are overshadowed by their big win over Oklahoma. Their offense is strong and junior quarterback Seth Doege has thrown 22 touchdowns this season. Iowa State’s defense can’t handle that kind of talent. They have lost their last four games and are giving up almost 36 points per game. Ultimately, Texas Tech throws the ball all over the field and has their way with Iowa State.
Predicted Winner: Texas Tech
#24 Texas vs. Kansas
The Jayhawks have been abysmal this season. They are giving up over 50 points per game and have lost their last five games. Texas hasn’t been particularly special recently, but they will still dominate in this game, despite having lost their last two games. The Texas Longhorns get back on track and get a win on The Longhorn Network.
Predicted Winner: Texas
