Alabama's Derrick Henry was named the 81st winner of the Heisman Memorial Trophy in Manhattan on ...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/40" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/40">Alabama</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/72385" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/72385">Derrick Henry</a> was named the 81st winner of the Heisman Memorial Trophy in Manhattan on Saturday. Also along the front row with him was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/158" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/158">Clemson</a> quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/84667" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/84667">Deshaun Watson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/616" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/616">Stanford</a> running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/85079" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/85079">Christian McCaffrey.</a>For a while, it looked like the Heisman ceremony would need a few more chairs for some Big 12 guys.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>’s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66289" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66289">Seth Russell</a> had a big-time season going, averaging over four touchdowns a game, until his neck injury in game seven.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> was running a close second to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/370" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/370">LSU</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83136" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83136">Leonard Fournette</a> in most people's Heismanology rankings until the month of November brought injury and losses.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66275" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66275">Corey Coleman</a> could have been an invitee, but after setting touchdown records in September and October he was shut out of the end zone in his last four games.And after finishing fourth in the voting, you could argue that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> should have been invited to New York to begin with, but he too was left home.Ultimately, just like the 2014 four-team College Football Playoff, the Big 12 was shut out. Not a single Big 12 player was anywhere near Times Square for the Heisman Trophy announcement, after what once looked so promising for a field of offensive stars, Regardless of the player-of-the-year snubs, there is still plenty of star power involved in the All-Big 12 team.Offense<figure><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>
Position</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
QB</td>
<td>Baker Mayfield</td>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
RB</td>
<td>DeAndre Washington</td>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
RB</td>
<td>Mike Warren</td>
<td>Iowa State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
WR</td>
<td>Josh Doctson</td>
<td>TCU</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
WR</td>
<td>Corey Coleman</td>
<td>Baylor</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
TE</td>
<td>Blake Darwin</td>
<td>Oklahoma State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
OL</td>
<td>Cody Whitehair</td>
<td>Kansas State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
OL</td>
<td>Joey Hunt</td>
<td>TCU</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
OL</td>
<td>Spencer Drango</td>
<td>Baylor</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
OL</td>
<td>Ty Darlington</td>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
OL</td>
<td>La'Raven Clark</td>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
K</td>
<td>Ben Grogan</td>
<td>Oklahoma State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
RET</td>
<td>Morgan Burns</td>
<td>Kansas State
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>Mayfield, the dual-threat dynamo, passed for 3,389 yards and 35 touchdowns while throwing just five picks all year. He also added 428 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, mostly on improvised scrambles.Corey Coleman captured the Biletnikoff Award after leading the Big 12 with 1,363 yards receiving and 20 touchdowns. He also helped the Bears to lead the nation in offense for the third straight year.Ben Grogan went 14-for-18 on field goals, but his most notable statistic is that he cooly managed two straight game-winning field goals to keep the Cowboys unbeaten early in the season.Defense<figure><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>
Position</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
DE</td>
<td>Emmanuel Ogbah</td>
<td>Oklahoma State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
DE</td>
<td>Shawn Oakman</td>
<td>Baylor</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
DT</td>
<td>Andrew Billings</td>
<td>Baylor</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
DT</td>
<td>Davion Pierson</td>
<td>TCU</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
LB</td>
<td>Eric Striker </td>
<td>Oklahoma </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
LB</td>
<td>Micah Awe</td>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
LB</td>
<td>Jordan Evans</td>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
CB</td>
<td>Daryl Worley</td>
<td>West Virginia</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
CB</td>
<td>Zach Sanchez</td>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
S</td>
<td>Fish Smithson</td>
<td>Kansas</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
S</td>
<td>Jordan Sterns</td>
<td>Oklahoma State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
P </td>
<td>Nick O'Toole</td>
<td>West Virginia
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>Despite mysteriously being left off the Lombardi Award list, Ogbah is the nation's active leader in career sacks with 28 and also set the school record with 19 quarterback hurries in 2015.Striker currently has 23 career sacks to go along with his 185 tackles. He was named a second-team All-American by the AP after posting 61 tackles, 7.5 sacks, and 11 hurries this season.

Big 12 All-Conference team: Mayfield goes from walk-on to star

Oklahoma fell from No. 3 to No. 4 in this week’s College Football Playoff rankings, but it makes ...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> fell from No. 3 to No. 4 in this week’s College Football Playoff rankings, but it makes no difference to the Sooners as they are still happily in the field of four.Because of the drop, the anticipated matchup with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/40" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/40">Alabama</a> may have to wait as the Sooners will now face off with No. 1 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/158" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/158">Clemson</a> in the first round in the Orange Bowl.The Sooners have won nine Big 12 titles in the 17 years under Bob Stoops and will be playing in the Orange Bowl for the 19th time. The game against Clemson will be a rematch of last year's Russell Athletic Bowl where the Tigers bludgeoned the Sooners 40­-6. But as OU cornerback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64131" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64131">Zack Sanchez</a> said on the selection show on ESPN, "I don't think any of it is about getting teams back. The ultimate motivation is winning a national championship."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>With that in mind, they certainly have the horses to win the big prize. Here are three reasons Oklahoma can win the College Football Playoff.They are the hottest team going in<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/145451/cropped_REU_2343952.jpg?ts=1448835411"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>When it comes to playoff football, always go with whoever has the hottest hand. Remember <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/507" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/507">Ohio State</a> last year? They were the one team people said probably didn't belong in the Final Four, yet there they were getting on a hot streak and beating the stew out of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/748" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/748">Wisconsin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/40" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/40">Alabama</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/514" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/514">Oregon</a> to be the first team to lift the college football playoff trophy.As the venerable Keith Jackson would say, ole ‘Mo is wearing Crimson. The Sooners look to be the 2015 version of Ohio State with a ton of momentum on their side and a familiar No. 4 seeding. Since that nearly inexplicable loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a>, the Big Red has been a focused, well­-oiled machine, beating their opponents by an average of 52­-19 over the last seven games. OU closed the regular season with wins over three ranked teams, two of them on the road at No. 6 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>, No. 18 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>, and at No. 11 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a>.They've got a healthy Baker Mayfield<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/142232/cropped_USAT_134762.jpg?ts=1447554507"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>The only glitch in the last seven games has been the fourth quarter of the Sooners' game with TCU on Nov. 21. In that game, their Heisman candidate quarterback suffered an injury from a late hit in the first half and the Sooner's offense stagnated behind backup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64124" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64124">Trevor Knight</a> and let a 30­-13 fourth-quarter lead come down to a 30-­29 nailbiter as the Sooners deflected a possible two-point conversion in the final minute.With <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> back in control the following week against Oklahoma State, the Sooner Schooner sailed on for 524 yards against the best defense in the Big 12, on their way to a breezy 58-­23 win. Though Mayfield has been solid all season, his game has picked up in the last month or so, bringing the offense together, keeping plays alive with his escapability and doing things that don't show up in the box score.A healthy Mayfield equals a healthy chance to win two more games.Their defense is better than you think<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/130129/cropped_USPW_356029.jpg?ts=1442332689"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>While the Sooners sit fourth among the Final Four in terms in total defense (350.7 yards per game) and scoring defense (20.8 points per game), keep in mind they also played in the highest-scoring offensive conference in the country and faced the best collection of quarterbacks.Also, when it gets down to crunch time, the Sooner D bows up the best. Of the 38 trips into the red zone against them, OU has given up just 20 touchdowns this season. Hyperactive difference­makers like linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64135" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64135">Eric Striker</a> (16 tackles for loss) and defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64136" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64136">Charles Tapper</a> (seven sacks) have been making more and more plays all over the field. Also, the Sooners probably have the best secondary of the lot with the thievery of Sanchez and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/82730" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/82730">Jordan Thomas</a> combining for 11 interceptions and both bringing one back for a touchdown this season.Again, the style of play they've faced may skew the stats a little, but when you are giving up just 201 yards per game through the air and facing Big 12 offenses, that's playing at a national championship ­level. So we'll see.

3 reasons Oklahoma will win the College Football Playoff

Yes, we know: The Big 12 does not have a championship game to play this weekend. That's because t...

Yes, we know: The Big 12 does not have a championship game to play this weekend. That's because they're smart. The Big 12 is the only major conference that plays an entire round-robin schedule, so there's no need to play a conference title game like the ACC, SEC, Big Ten, and Pac-12 do.Besides, why would the conference want to risk <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a>'s deadlock cinch of being in the final four playoffs by playing an extra game? Doesn't anyone remember <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/457" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/457">Nebraska</a> in 1996, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a> in 1998, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/429" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/429">Missouri</a> in 2007? All three of those teams were destined for the BCS title game, only to be upset and lose their chance for a national title.So, in lieu of a championship game, here are some accolades for the 2015 season. Behold the best of the Big 12.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Best Game - TCU 55, Texas Tech 52 This was the type of fast-break game that epitomizes the modern era of Big 12 football: a high-octane offensive assault. It came down to a tipped pass from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50793" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50793">Josh Doctson</a> to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50212" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50212">Aaron Green</a> with 23 seconds left. That was one epic catch and one improbable escape for the Frogs against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a>.Best Offensive Player - Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma QB<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/143277/cropped_REU_2337490.jpg?ts=1447974096"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>When we say <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> edged out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66275" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66275">Corey Coleman</a>, we mean barely. Both were outstanding in their own way. But Mayfield has been Manziel-like with his feet and arm, ending the season with 42 touchdowns and just five turnovers. Oh, and he's got the Sooners in the final four.Best Defensive Player - Emmanuel Ogbah, Oklahoma State DE Yes, the "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64154" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64154">Nigerian Nightmare</a>" ended up leading with 13 sacks and also with 17.5 total tackles for loss, both tops in the league. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a>'s defense was second in the loop with 37 total sacks.Top Newcomer, Offense - Mike Warren, Iowa State RB Boy, did <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a> need someone to emerge in its backfield. With <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/59857" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/59857">Sam B. Richardson</a> struggling early in the season, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/88795" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/88795">Mike Warren</a> stepped up, finishing with 1,339 yards overall and 112 per game on the ground.Top Newcomer, Defense - Ty Summers, TCU LB<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/146368/cropped_USAT_136016.jpg?ts=1449236324"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>With all the injuries that ravaged this team, the emergence of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83338" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83338">Ty Summers</a> was a huge boon to the Frogs in 2015. Summers ended the year with 75 total tackles and helped lead the Frogs to another double-digit win total.Best Win - Oklahoma at Baylor After a rather uneventful first nine games against weak competition, the Sooners announced their presence on the national scene with a 44-34 win in Waco. The Big Red defense was the big story here as it held the Bears to only 416 yards, 249 yards below their average.Biggest Upset - Texas over Oklahoma In hindsight, how the hell did this happen? For some reason, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Longhorns</a> were able to run roughshod over the Sooners' defense, gaining 313 yards on the ground. Meanwhile, Baker Mayfield and Co. were held to just 278 total yards. Since then, OU has averaged 52 points per game.Worst Injury - Draw<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/99755/cropped_USPW_431955.jpg?ts=1442406580"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Pick one. The Big 12 was decimated by the injury bug this season, specifically Heisman candidate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66289" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66289">Seth Russell </a>of Baylor, Biletnikoff Award finalist Josh Doctson of TCU, two <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a> QBs, and 20 players off the TCU two-deep.Best Postgame Quote - Kliff Kingsbury, after Texas Tech 35, Arkansas 24 "At the Texas high school coaches convention this past summer, he (Arkansas coach Bret Bielema) stood up and said, 'If you don't play with a fullback, we'll kick your a--. If you throw it 70 times a game. we'll kick your a--.' Well, he just got his a-- kicked twice in a row and probably next week by A&amp;M as well, so that did feel good."Overachiever of the Year - Oklahoma Yes, we keep glossing the Big Red here, but it is merited. The Sooners were coming off an 8-5 season, which included a 40-6 loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/158" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/158">Clemson</a>. They were picked third in the Big 12, but the narrative placed them well behind TCU and Baylor. Thanks to Mr. Mayfield and a much-improved defense, the Big Red took the 2015 title.Underachiever of the Year - Kansas State The Wildcats went 9-4 in 2014 and had six returning starters on each side of the ball this year. But a season-ending injury to starting quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/75260" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/75260">Jesse Ertz</a> on the first play of the year was an omen of the campaign that lay ahead. K-State's won just two conference games so far, but the good news is they can get a bowl bid with a win against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia </a>on Saturday.Team to watch in 2016 - TCU Sure, they'll miss Trevone Boykin at the controls and Josh Doctson on the receiving end of numerous touchdown tosses, but just imagine what that youthful defense will be like next year without double-digit injury totals. Plus, Gary Patterson is ready to have a defense-heavy team again anyway.

Year in review: The best of the Big 12

Before we breakdown what was learned about each team individually in the Big 12, let's dispel som...

Before we breakdown what was learned about each team individually in the Big 12, let's dispel some misconceptions about the conference in general.They don’t need a championship game after all. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> won the title outright and avoided the mess the conference had last year, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a> canceling each other out for the Final Four.The Big 12 is also not known for defense, but the best unit in the conference came out on top. Oklahoma leads in scoring defense and total defense.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Here's what we learned about each team in the Big 12 this season:Oklahoma What a bad time to have your worst game, right? Actually, not many people saw this kind of season from the Sooners after they went 8-5 last year. Since the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> loss, the Big Red averaged 52 points per game. This team is starting to take on the look of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/507" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/507">Ohio State</a> from last season.Oklahoma State Midway through this 2015 season, head coach Mike Gundy said, “Our running game is terrible.” That was pretty spot-on. Not having a ball control offense really cost them in their two losses to close the season. The Pokes D also gave up 897 yards on the ground in their last three games.TCU Imagine what the Horned Frogs could have been without having 20 players lost for the season to injury. That uber-young defense played their hearts out at times, but it was decimated. The offense lost All-American receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50793" style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50793">Josh Doctson</a> for the year, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" style="line-height: 1.5em; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> has often played through injuries.Baylor Sure, the Bears D was pretty good this year - finishing fourth in total defense at 28 points per game - but there was hopes it would be a dominant defense with surefire NFLers like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/56257" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/56257">Shawn Oakman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76499" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76499">Andrew Billings</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66291" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66291">Orion Stewart</a>. Meanwhile, the offense chugged along despite the revolving door of quarterbacks.West Virginia As of right now, the Mountaineers are 7-5 and in the middle of the Big 12, which is similar to last year’s seven-win season which saw them finish 5-4 in conference play. So the good news is there was no regression. The bad news is that with 15 starters back and their best defense since 2010, there were hopes for more in 2015.Texas Tech As we saw after his Red Raiders took down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/59" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/59">Arkansas</a> in Fayetteville, coach Kingsbury isn’t afraid to rub people’s noses in it. Tech went from 4-8 in 2014 to 7-5 this year and are projected to take on former SWC rival <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/635" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/635">Texas A&amp;M</a> in the Texas Bowl in Houston. That game ought to get coach Kliff talking.Texas The expectations weren’t high going into the season, but with Saturday’s expected loss to Baylor, the Horns will end 2015 with a 4-8 record, marking the first back-to-back losing seasons since 1988-89. What’s more, this year’s D gave up 450 yards and 31 points per game, and are 343 yards away from giving up the most yards in school history. Here’s to a better 2016. And it will be.Kansas State The Wildcats need to beat <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a> or the 2015 season will be viewed as a failure with no bowl bid. Head coach Bill Snyder took the blame on numerous occasions, particularly after the 55-0 loss to Oklahoma. There's thought that if K-State doesn’t beat WVU that may signal to coach Snyder it’s time to finally hang up the whistle.Iowa State Head coach Paul Rhoads finished 2015 as his third straight bowl-less campaign. He entered the season on the hot seat to begin with, and now has been handed his walking papers. The Cyclones were competitive most of the way, but it wasn’t enough. The hiring of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/647" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/647">Toledo</a>’s Matt Campbell should be a shot in the arm for the program.Kansas Poor Jayhawks. Poor David Beaty. He’s a crack-shot recruiter and a good coach, but he just got caught up in a bad transition. It didn’t help he had to resort to a third string freshman quarterback for most of the season. Hey <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a> fans, you get the last laugh because your basketball team is ranked No. 7.

What we learned in the Big 12: Oklahoma State's running game cost them playoff spot

Clark Griswold has traded in the old station wagon and loaded up the Family Truckster, and he cou...

Clark Griswold has traded in the old station wagon and loaded up the Family Truckster, and he couldn't have picked a better weekend as far as the Big 12 goes.Pile in the wife and kids, load up the cooler, set your GPS, and make sure to watch out for Christie Brinkley in a red Corvette. If you have the ways and means, this would be a great weekend to hit the road to Austin on Thursday, Fort Worth on Friday, and Stillwater on Saturday: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a> are the three big games for the Thanksgiving weekend of action.And don't stop to see the largest ball of twine, because the Big 12 title could be decided by Saturday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Thursday: Texas Tech at Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, 7:30 p.m. ET, FOX Sports 1<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/144708/cropped_USAT_124803.jpg?ts=1448544607"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>For the Longhorns, it's simple: win the next two games and go into the postseason; lose one and you're done. And head coach Charlie Strong knows how much this program could use a few more weeks of practice. The only problem is those last two games will come against Texas Tech on Thursday and then Baylor on Dec. 5, both tall orders. This will be the 88th time the Horns will play on Thanksgiving Day, and they've gone 59-25-3 in those games.Tech's offense features the Big 12's leader in passing yards per game (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/89514" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a>, 355 yards per game), the third-best rusher (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54192" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54192">DeAndre Washington</a>, 117 yards per game), and the best ball-control offense in the conference (29 first downs per game). If the Raiders are clicking in their short passing game and able to control the ball and the clock, this should be a W for Double-T.By contrast, the Longhorns average just 25 points per game on offense, which is nearly shameful in the high-octane Big 12. In addition, the Horns will be without leading rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/87407" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/87407">D'Onta Foreman</a>, who underwent finger surgery last week, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64173" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64173">Johnathan Gray</a> will remain on the shelf.A ray of hope: Texas has not lost at home to Texas Tech since the dark days of 1997.Friday: Baylor at TCU Amon Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/144711/cropped_USPW_406176__1_.jpg?ts=1448545255"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>The Baptists and the Christians renew their new high-stakes rivalry in a game with Big 12 title ramifications.The Frogs are pining for some revenge as they've lost the last two games to the Bears by three points each. Not to mention, last year’s 61-58 loss cost the Frogs a spot in the final four national playoff and catapulted the Bears to their second straight Big 12 crown. Baylor overcame a 58-37 fourth-quarter deficit in that one, scoring 24 straight points, including a game-winning field goal as time expired.Both squads are walking MASH units, as Baylor quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93574" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93574">Jarrett Stidham </a>has been ruled out the rest of the season, leaving the Bears to hope <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/71587" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/71587">Chris Johnson</a> can work his magic like he did in that scintillating win at Oklahoma State. TCU All-American <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> is still a maybe for this game, and his presence would make a huge difference - no offense to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/56443" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/56443">Bram Kohlhausen</a>, the Frogs' third-string Houdini who nearly pulled off the upset at Oklahoma last week.But no matter who's throwing the ball deep for BU, there are still three guys named <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66275" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66275">Corey Coleman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/88890" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/88890">KD Cannon</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/55480" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/55480">Jay Lee</a> who are notorious for phoning home on long bombs. This TCU secondary isn't the vintage deep-five that you usually see from a Gary Patterson-coached team, so look for the Bears to strike deep and strike often.Some Baylor-TCU trivia: The first meeting between these two came in 1899 and finished in a 0-0 tie. Both schools were located in Waco at the time. Saturday: Oklahoma at Oklahoma State Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, 8 p.m. ET, ABC<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/144712/cropped_USPW_031920.jpg?ts=1448545589"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>For the Sooners, it's hopes for the final four or bust.For the Cowboys, it’s bust the Sooners' final-four hopes.The Sooners are favored by six, but you know how Bedlam is - it's freakin' bedlam. Throw out the records and the previous results with these two. It will be a great atmosphere and a hard-fought game that could very well come down to who gets that one last big break.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> got the go-ahead to play in this one earlier this week after leaving Saturday's game with TCU with a head injury. Mayfield said during a press conference this week that he would "run through a brick wall for my team." Instead, he had to watch from the sidelines in the second half as TCU mounted its comeback and the Sooner offense stagnated behind backup QB <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64124" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64124">Trevor Knight</a>.But the big key in Stillwater could be the effectiveness of Sooner running backs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/82727" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/82727">Samaje Perine</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/82723" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/82723">Joe Mixon</a>. If those two can gash the Okie State defense consistently, this one gets tricky for OSU. Baylor ran 104 offensive plays against the Cowboys. If Oklahoma can get close to that number again, the Big Red will win this game in the fourth quarter. But again, it depends on OU's control of the time of possession and the pace of the game.Remember, this is Bedlam.

3 games to watch on road-trip weekend in the Big 12

They don’t normally get the headlines. They don’t get the glory. They don’t always get the cutest...

They don’t normally get the headlines. They don’t get the glory. They don’t always get the cutest girls, either. Backup quarterbacks usually just get to hold extra points and clipboards.That is, unless they play in the Big 12 this season.Saturday saw a host of backup quarterbacks take the spotlight from injured starters and shined a light on the art of next-man-up. With all these second- and third-string guys coming to the fore, here's how the top backup quarterbacks rank in the Big 12 this season<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>The 2015 Big 12 Backup QB Power Ranking:</h3>1. J.W. Walsh, Oklahoma State He’s not technically a starter, but he might as well be named “Reliever of the Year” as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50583" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50583">Walsh</a> has played nearly as much as starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83531" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> in some games. A running quarterback, Walsh is the go-to guy in the red zone and provides an effective change of pace, having run for 11 touchdowns.2. Chris Johnson, Baylor The quarterback-turned-receiver-turned-quarterback came in for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93574" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93574">Jarrett Stidham</a> in the second half Saturday and threw touchdowns of 39 and 71 yards within his first five throws. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/800" href="http://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/800">Johnson</a> was smooth, looked decisive, and produced immediately as he led the Bears to a huge road win at OSU.3. Jarrett Stidham, Baylor The only reason this freshman phenom sits behind teammate Johnson is because of the circumstances surrounding the heroics Saturday. Other than that, the future looks bright for the Bears offense to stay a high-wire act thanks to this composed and precocious frosh.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/140459/cropped_REU_2333246.jpg?ts=1446783480"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>4. Bram Kohlhausen, TCU The seldom-used senior had a fourth quarter for the ages. Down 30-13 at Oklahoma, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/56443" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/56443">Kohlhausen</a> led three scoring drives in the final 8:59 to pull TCU within 30-29 with 51 seconds left. Kohlhausen would’ve reached true folk hero status had his two-point pass not been knocked down.5. Joel Lanning, Iowa State <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/73779" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/73779">Lanning</a>’s inclusion here is the most surprising considering how much was expected of senior <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/59857" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/59857">Sam B. Richardson</a>, who entered the season with 31 career starts. But when Richardson stalled, Lanning came in and delivered a win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> and near upsets of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a>.6. Joe Hubener, Kansas State. Lest we forget, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54103" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54103">Hubener</a>’s journey started way back on opening day for the Cats. Starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/75260" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/75260">Jesse Ertz</a> was injured and lost for the season after one play. Hubener came out of the bullpen and has had an elevator season of ups and downs. But to his credit, KSU is still in the bowl hunt.And now on to the regular Big 12 Power Rankings:1. Oklahoma (last Week: 2) That was a skin-of-the-teeth win for the Big Red. A comfortable 30-13 advantage looked safe, but with no <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> and the defense not getting stops, things became hairy.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/142988/cropped_GettyImages-489652068.jpg?ts=1447864934"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>2. Baylor (last Week: 3) Believe it or not, this was the Bears’ first win at OSU since 1939. Key stat: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a> ran for 304 yards and held the Cowboys to just eight yards rushing.3. Oklahoma State (last Week: 1) The 45-35 loss to Baylor marked the fifth time in eight games the Cowboys trailed at halftime this season. This time, OSU never got the game to single digits again.4. TCU (last Week: 4) As Todd Blackledge said on the telecast, this was a valiant effort by the Frogs. They out-yarded OU 186-20 in the fourth quarter alone, but then came that batted down two-point conversion. Curses.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/143880/cropped_GettyImages-498237058.jpg?ts=1448213086"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>5. West Virginia (last Week: 5) For the first time since 1969, the ‘Neers had three players go over 100 yards rushing in the win at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/59" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/59">Kansas</a>: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83431" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83431">Skyler Howard</a> (129 yards), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/71640" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/71640">Wendell Smallwood </a>(115), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64632" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64632">Rushel Shell</a> (108).6. Texas Tech (last Week: 6) Nothing would make Kliff Kingsbury’s wry smile all the more devilish than his team knocking Texas out of bowl contention on Thanksgiving night.7. Kansas State (last Week: 7) With the 38-35 win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a>, the Wildcats stay in bowl contention at 4-6. Winnable games at Kansas and vs. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a> remain.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/144234/cropped_USAT_177268.jpg?ts=1448332109"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>8. Texas (last Week: 9) UT spent the bye week deflecting talk that Charlie Strong is a candidate for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/405" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/405">Miami</a> job. Wins over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a> and Baylor gets them a bowl bid. Yikes.9. Iowa State (last Week: 8) The Paul Rhoads era is done, but can’t say we’re shocked. Rhoads had some high points, like upsets over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/457" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/457">Nebraska</a> in 2009 and No. 2 Oklahoma State in 2011, but too many lowlights.10. Kansas (last Week: 10) While the woebegone football team is 0-11, the Jayhawks basketball team is in Maui for a tournament. Oh the symbolism.

Big 12 Power Rankings: Backup QBs get chance to shine

This weekend, the Big Four will match up in what's essentially a pair of elimination games.  TCU ...

This weekend, the Big Four will match up in what's essentially a pair of elimination games.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a> goes to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a> plays at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a> on Saturday. Combined, these squads have a record of 36-3. No other conference in the country has four teams with one or fewer losses, making this the biggest weekend of the season so far.Baylor at Oklahoma State Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, Okla. 7:30 p.m. ET on Fox Sports<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/143344/cropped_USPW_462896.jpg?ts=1447993351"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>It was expected the Bears would miss their Heisman candidate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66289" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66289">Seth Russell</a>, and now it's obvious they aren't the same team. Since Russell's injury, the Bears are averaging "only" 37 points and 474 yards per game. With Russell in charge, they were averaging 64 points and 719 yards per game.The Bears are coming off a loss for the first time this season and freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93574" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93574">Jarrett Stidham</a> (who's still dealing with a sore back) will be in the crosshairs of sack-man extraordinaire <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64154" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64154">Emmanuel Ogbah</a>, who leads the Big 12 with eight solo sacks and six assists. The Pokes are second in the conference in scoring defense at 24.5 points per game, though, they got run over by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a>, giving up 250 yards on the ground and 6.6 yards per carry.It's no surprise the Bears may lean on their grinding running game Saturday since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66284" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66284">Shock Linwood</a> leads the Big 12 with 127 rushing yards per game and Baylor leads the loop with 292 yards per game on the ground. Put simply, the team will need that running game to click.The Cowboys are brimming with confidence because their two-quarterback system of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83531" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50583" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50583">J.W. Walsh</a> have them clicking through the air and on the ground. This is a team that's come from behind to steal five of its wins, including a pair of games in which it trailed by 17 points. No lead is safe against Oklahoma State. The running game's still a weak spot, but it's improved in the past few weeks and will need to work some clock and possession time against the potentially dangerous Bears. TCU at Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Norman, Okla. 8 p.m. ET on ABC<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/143343/cropped_USAT_164840.jpg?ts=1447993135"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>The complexion of this game changed completely when TCU's main operatives <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50793" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50793">Josh Doctson</a> suffered injuries recently. As of Thursday, Frogs head coach Gary Patterson said Boykin is "questionable" for the showdown Saturday while Doctson's been <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/886382" href="http://www.thescore.com/news/886382">ruled out</a> for the rest of the regular season. Considering their dubious 23-point output against an awful <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a> defense last week, missing their most explosive players does not bode well for the Frogs in Norman.Coming off a stellar win at Baylor, the Sooners will face a rejuvenated Frogs defense that's rebounded to rank as the second best team in total defense at 389 yards per game. There are no big stars - no Frog ranks in the top 10 of the Big 12 in tackles, sacks, or interceptions - but it's a unit that's making a comeback as its injuries mend. Look for a little bit of a defensive game here, despite this being a Big 12 contest (meaning both teams will still score 30 points or so).The difference here? <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> has become "Baker Magic," and having <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64132" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64132">Sterling Shepard</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/82727" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/82727">Samaje Perine</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/82723" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/82723">Joe Mixon</a> gives the Sooners an edge. Don't be surprised if defensive coordinator Mike Stoops unleashes linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64135" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64135">Eric Striker</a> and defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64136" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64136">Charles Tapper</a> to put pressure on TCU's offense and force some turnovers. Iowa State at Kansas State Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Manhattan, Kan. 12 p.m. ET on FS1<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/143345/cropped_USAT_161805.jpg?ts=1447993446"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>It's the battle of embattled coaches.Both Iowa State's Paul Rhoads and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a>'s Bill Snyder are facing heavy criticism for their teams' recent foibles and it's rumored neither of them will return next season.This will be the third straight season in which Iowa State will miss the postseason and Rhoads' overall record is a paltry 32-53. A buyout of his contract at this time will cost the school $4.5 million since he's signed through 2021.The Cyclones got a midseason jolt of energy from quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/73779" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/73779">Joel Lanning</a>, beating <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> and pushing TCU and Oklahoma State to the brink. Freshman phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/88795" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/88795">Mike Warren</a> got a little dinged up against the Cowboys, but managed to become just the seventh frosh to post a 1,000-yard season.Kansas State's playing for its postseason life, which should be incentive enough. At 3-6, it'll need to beat Iowa State, Kansas, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a>. Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54103" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54103">Joe Hubener</a> has been hit and miss, as witnessed by his 47-percent completion percentage, and leads an offense that's dead last in the Big 12 at 338 yards per game.

3 games to watch on a big Saturday for the Big 12

Too bad famous Oklahoma-born humorist Will Rogers isn’t around to see what's become of his home s...

Too bad famous Oklahoma-born humorist Will Rogers isn’t around to see what's become of his home state teams. He’d surely have a humorously defensive quip about them because, after 11 weeks of the season, guess what we’ve discovered in the Big 12? Defense does in fact win championships.Or at least it looks that way now.While high-octane machines <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a> puttered last weekend, the conference's two best defensive teams now top the Big 12 Power Rankings. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> have ascended to the catbird seats by scoring a lot of points, but more importantly, they play the best defense in the conference as the top two scoring defenses.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>For each of the teams from the Sooner State - or the Cowboy State, depending where you stand - it was their defenses that led them to victories last weekend, as the Sooners won a biggie at Baylor 44-34 and the Cowboys escaped <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a> 35-31. Granted, giving up 34 and 31 points doesn’t sound so hot, but look inside the numbers.After digging themselves into a 24-7 hole in the game's first 21 minutes, the Cowboy defense finally put their nose to the grindstone and clamped down on ISU. As the Pokes’ offense was making its comeback, the defense held the Cyclones scoreless on six of their last seven possessions and 104 second-half yards.The Sooner defense was downright astounding, considering it was going up against Baylor’s unstoppable force. Yet, they held the Bears to 416 total yards, 249 yards below their average of 665. Add a little magic from quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a>, and the Big Red found itself back in the title talk with a 10-point win.“The battles vs. their offensive line were the main point of the game,” OU coach Bob Stoops said about his defense. “Baylor will destroy you running the football if you let them but we controlled them after that first quarter. I believe they had 83 yards in first quarter and 76 yards the next three quarters. That was a major part of the game.” Now the big question: with the Cowboys hosting Baylor, and the Sooners hosting TCU on Saturday, what do they have for an encore?<h3>The Big 12 Power Rankings</h3>1. Oklahoma State (last week: 2) The Pokes overcome a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit to down ISU. Now, home games vs. Baylor and Oklahoma are all that stand in the way of a Final Four appearance.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/142730/cropped_USAT_174051.jpg?ts=1447768603"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>2. Oklahoma (last week: 3) Two interesting notes from the win at Baylor: 1) OU is now 20-9 in games where ESPN’s "GameDay" was on hand. And 2) <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64132" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64132">Sterling Shepard</a> finished with 14 catches, one shy of the school record.3. Baylor (last week: 1) The struggle is real. Last week, it was a narrow escape of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a>. This week, it was a solid loss to OU on the national stage. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66275" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66275">Corey Coleman</a> can’t do it all himself.4. TCU (last week: 4) The Frogs are in dire straights, having <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50793" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50793">Josh Doctson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin </a>injured and barely beating <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a>. A ridiculous total of 23 Horned Frogs have fallen to injury this season.5. West Virginia (last week: 5) Ballhawks. The Neers defense collected five <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> turnovers, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54831" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54831">Jared Barber</a>’s 42-yard scoop-and-score. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/71640" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/71640">Wendell Smallwood</a> cracked the 1,000-yard mark with his career-high 165 yards rushing.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/142729/cropped_USAT_162917.jpg?ts=1447768372"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>6. Texas Tech (last week: 6) In the 59-44 win vs. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a>, the Raiders gained nearly 300 yards in the first quarter alone, staking themselves to a 28-7 lead as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54192" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54192">DeAndre Washington</a> finished with 252 yards rushing.7. Kansas State (last week: 7) Oof. The Wildcats will have to win out vs. Iowa State, Kansas, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a> just to become bowl eligible and get those extra few weeks of practice they could certainly use.8. Iowa State (last week: 8) Nearly giant killers again, the gut-punch loss to Oklahoma State means the Cyclones will sit at home in the postseason for the third straight year.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/125452/cropped_USPW_023655.jpg?ts=1439427533"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>9. Texas (last week: 9) In true road games this year, the Longhorns have been outscored 150-30. They lost five turnovers in the game at WVU after losing just seven turnovers - total - this year.10. Kansas (last week: 10) KU nearly pulled a stunner, falling 23-17 at TCU. Had they won, it would’ve been the first time in the modern era an underdog of 46 points would've won.

Big 12 Power Rankings: Will Rogers would be so proud

The Big 12's version of Separation November trudges on this week as the conference hopes to produ...

The Big 12's version of Separation November trudges on this week as the conference hopes to produce at least one team for the four-team national playoff.The only game this week featuring a matchup of "big four" squads is a doozy. Suddenly-hot No. 12 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> ventures to Waco to play unheralded No. 6 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>. This one is so big, the ESPN cameras, the Gameday set built by Home Depot and Lee Corso's two headgears will be on site to kick off the college football Saturday.No. 12 Oklahoma at No. 6 Baylor Saturday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. ET (ABC)<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/140422/cropped_USAT_134835.jpg?ts=1446773009"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>How has freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93574" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93574">Jarrett Stidham</a> responded to getting the starting nod for BU? One look at the Big 12 passing efficiency chart and you'll see Stidham's name at the top with a rating of 229.0, ahead of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66289" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66289">Seth Russell</a>'s 189.7. Yes, it doesn't look as if the quarterback position is any problem for the Bears.The big question is what is the pulse of their defense? Against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a>, they couldn't seem to put the clamps on anything, allowing the Wildcats to hang around the entire game before escaping with a 31-24 victory. The Sooners should provide a much stiffer challenge.Since their inexplicable loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> in October, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> and Co. have been a momentum machine, scoring 58 points per game. But it's the burgeoning defense that has been the story as the Big Red defense leads the Big 12 in scoring defense (18.1 per game), total defense (327.2 yards per game) and pass defense (178.6 yards per game). Most concerning of all, the Big Red also leads the conference in 3.78 sacks per game, led by that ball of energy known as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64135" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64135">Eric Striker</a> with 7.5 sacks in 2015.The biggest key to the game could very well be the turnover battle. Baylor is downright stingy in that department, sitting at a plus-11. The Sooners are at a plus-three, but look for Mike Stoops' defense to go all-out in pressuring the precocious Stidham to try to force him into some bad decisions.No. 8 Oklahoma State at Iowa State Saturday, Nov. 14, 3:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/140796/cropped_USAT_163414.jpg?ts=1446938748"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Warning: This could be the working definition of a trap game for the Cowboys.All the elements are there.<ul>
<li>They made national news with a blowout win over a top 10 opponent last week.</li>
<li>They've got another top 10 team to take on next week.</li>
<li>They're playing against a team that has shown potential to pull of a big upset.</li>
</ul>Check. Check. And check. All three things describe the now-eighth ranked Orange and Black as they come off a big time 49-29 win over previously unbeaten <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a> and have a date at No. 6 Baylor next week. But they better take care of the matters at hand as the Bears will have to make an arduous road trip to Ames.The Cyclones are a team that could either play top-notch ball (a 24-0 clampdown of Texas) or completely lay an egg (a 52-16 loss at Oklahoma). If you catch the 'Clones at the wrong time, or overlook them, they'll bite you right in the loss column.Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/73779" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/73779">Joel Lanning</a> has given the Cyclone offense a shot of adrenaline since taking over the starting spot, but got derailed by the Sooners. This week, he'll be going against another nasty defense, especially sack-masters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64154" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64154">Emmanuel Ogbah</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/53498" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/53498">Jimmy Bean</a>, who have combined for 14.5 sacks coming in from the edge.Let's see if the Cowboys have their focus right in this one.Texas at West Virginia Saturday, Nov. 14, 12 p.m. ET (ESPNU)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/126472/cropped_USPW_363717.jpg?ts=1440049357"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>With bowl-eligibility still in question, these two could use a big win here. The Longhorns have won three of their last four and have finally found a happy medium with their two quarterbacks in letting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/87412" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/87412">Jerrod Heard</a> (79-134, 1,040 yards) jump start the offense and then bring in former starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/71653" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/71653">Tyrone Swoopes</a> (nine rushing TDs) to manage through the red zone.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">WVU</a> quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83431" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83431">Skyler Howard</a> is the best throwing quarterback between the two teams and has completed 139 of his 250 throws. But the key to this one will definitely be the ball control side of things. Whichever team runs the ball with more effectiveness and keeps the other side's offense on the sidelines will take the W, no doubt.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/71640" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/71640">Wendell Smallwood</a> (954 yards) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64632" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64632">Rushel Shell</a> (437 yards) have combined for 11 TDs and average 6.7 and 4.0 yards per carry, respectively. They both went over the century mark in last week's 31-26 win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a>. The Longhorns rely on their two QBs to set the tone, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/87407" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/87407">D’Onta Foreman</a> (534 yards) has come on strong lately, including a 157-yard, two-touchdown performance in the 59-20 romp over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a> last week.

3 games to watch in the Big 12: Oklahoma State takes its show on the road

If you ever want to know how the other half lives, just ask Kansas head coach David Beaty. He's s...

If you ever want to know how the other half lives, just ask <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a> head coach David Beaty. He's seen both halves.He's seen the feast of contending for a national title, coaching a Heisman Trophy winner, and having his team dip into the national top 10 in all three seasons while he was an assistant at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/635" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/635">Texas A&amp;M</a> from 2012 -14.And he's also seen the famine of this year's football team at Kansas, where he's head honcho now.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a> are grabbing all the national headlines in the Big 12 with glitzy unbeaten records and sitting inside the top five of the national polls. Meanwhile, at the bottom of the conference standings, the Jayhawks are likely staring down the barrel of their first winless season since 1954, when they went 0-10 under first year head coach Chuck Mather.Beaty knew there would be a lot of growing pains when he bolted from A&amp;M and took the KU keys in the offseason. Still, nobody was sure that he would experience this much pain.Not only are the Jayhawks 0-for-9 so far this season, but they've been outscored 275-64 in their last five games. They also lost their top two quarterbacks to injury and are starting true freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/97050" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/97050">Ryan Willis</a> in what was already a youthful offense.Despite the discouraging prognostication for the remainder of the season, Beaty is not browbeaten in the least."The best way we can handle the rest of this season is by us getting better at being us," Beaty said on Monday. "We did some things the other night defensively and in the second quarter offensively where we got the running game going, but we didn't sustain it. We need to get a little bit better each week and we know that."The Jayhawks go into this weekend set to play a very angry <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU </a>team coming off a big loss at Oklahoma State. But Beaty, ever the optimist, sees this as just another chance to prove themselves."We don't control the schedule," Beaty said. "We deal in reality. You have to know the environment you're going into. Our job is to go into every game and try to be the best at being us. We have an opportunity to go into Amon Carter Stadium (and) beat a very good TCU football team. That's our goal right now."He may not be winning big, but David Beaty is certainly dreaming big. So stay tuned.<h3>The Big 12 Power Rankings</h3>1. Baylor (Last Week: 1) <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93574" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93574">Jarrett Stidham</a>? No problem. The frosh threw for 419 yards, the 10th-best total in BU history. The defense? Problem. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a> nearly moved at will, gaining 430 yards and making this a tussle.2. Oklahoma State (Last Week: 3) Finally, the Cowboys get some respect, moving from No. 14 to No. 5 in the polls after an impressive 49-29 blasting of TCU. Their four picks of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> could've derailed his Heisman campaign.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/140856/cropped_USPW_520497.jpg?ts=1446953343"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>3. Oklahoma (Last Week: 4) Impressive 52-16 win over a hot <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a> team. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> still isn't getting the Heisman love, but he's completing 70 percent of his passes and has a 7-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio.4. TCU (Last Week: 2) The Frogs drop from the unbeaten ranks with a palpable thud. The 49-29 loss at OSU ended their 16-game win streak. Losing star wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50793" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50793">Josh Doctson</a> to a wrist injury was a crushing blow to their hopes.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/140793/cropped_USAT_163304.jpg?ts=1446937613"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>5. West Virginia (Last Week: 6) A strong win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a> gives the Mountaineers their first Big 12 victory. WVU kept things grounded, having <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/71640" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/71640">Wendell Smallwood</a> (163 yards) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64632" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64632">Rushel Shell</a> (111) both pass the century mark.6. Texas Tech (Last Week: 5) The Raiders dropped to .500 with the tight loss at WVU. But <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54192" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54192">DeAndre Washington</a> became the first Texas Tech player to post back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons since Byron Hanspard in 1995-96.7. Kansas State (Last Week: 8) Close, but no cigar, as the Wildcats gave Baylor all it could handle in a 31-24 loss. QB <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54103" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54103">Joe Hubener</a> showed some moxie, dashing for a career-high 153 yards on the ground.<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/141325/cropped_REU_2333452.jpg?ts=1447162203"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>8. Iowa State (Last Week: 7) Despite the adrenaline high of last week's impressive 23-0 clampdown on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a>, the Cyclones couldn't keep the momentum, giving up 684 yards and 52 points in a blowout loss to the Sooners.9. Texas (Last Week: 9) The Longhorns set the tone early with an 84-yard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/87412" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/87412">Jerrod Heard</a> to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/99757" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/99757">John Burt </a>pass on their first play of the game. From there, the Horns stayed hot in a 59-20 romp versus Kansas.10. Kansas (Last Week: 10) The Jayhawks have given up at least 58 points in their last three games. According to ESPN's Football Power Index, KU has a 0.4 percent, 3.1 percent, and 5.6 percent chance to win against TCU, WVU, and K-State, respectively.

Big 12 Power Rankings: For KU's Beaty, the struggle is real

Sorry, folks: the College Football Playoff top four is out, and there are zero Big 12 teams invol...

Sorry, folks: the College Football Playoff top four is out, and there are zero Big 12 teams involved. But worry not: the month of November will change all that, with each of the conference's top four of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> playing a round-robin schedule.And honestly, the non-conference schedules have been mostly a bunch of tomato cans. None of the big four's 30 combined wins have come against any teams that are currently in the top 25.November is here to change all that, and things should work themselves out for the Big 12 in the College Football Playoff. Unless there's another tie at the top and there is no clear-cut conference champion. If that's the case again, look for immediate conference expansion.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>No. 6 Baylor at Kansas State Thursday, Nov. 5, 7:30 p.m. ET (FOX Sports 1)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/136526/cropped_USPW_432371.jpg?ts=1445283396"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Obviously this will be one of those under-the-national-microscope Thursday night games, as the Bears have a lot to prove. But the nation's college football eyes will also be watching with intense interest to see how true freshman<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93574" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93574"> Jarrett Stidham</a> does in place of the injured <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66289" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66289">Seth Russell</a>.The Bears probably couldn't have asked for a better opponent to break in Stidham, since the purple Cats have lost four straight games. Kansas State quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54103" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54103">Joe Hubener</a> has regressed to a 45 completion percentage and has five interceptions compared to just five touchdowns.The Wildcats have the eighth-ranked pass defense in the conference, giving up 269 yards per game. So now you see why <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66275" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66275">Corey Coleman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/55480" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/55480">Jay Lee</a>, and company are licking their chops despite no Russell under center. Look for the BU coaches to keep things very simple for the hyper-talented Stidham. That will also open up some running lanes for<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66284" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66284"> Shock Linwood</a>, who leads the Big 12 with 139 yards per game on the ground.The onus falls on longtime defensive coordinator Tom Hayes, a 32-year coaching veteran, to find ways for the Wildcats to pressure Stidham into a lot of bad decisions and keep Kansas State in the game.No. 8 TCU at No. 14 Oklahoma State Saturday, Nov. 7, 3:30 p.m. ET (FOX)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/140241/cropped_USPW_413895.jpg?ts=1446704211"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>One of the unbeatens will fall Saturday in a matchup where both teams feature high-powered offenses and defenses that are either getting better or getting healthier.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> is on every Heisman Trophy finalist list, and with good reason, because everything looks like it comes so easy for him. He is leading the Big 12 with 431 yards per game, 28 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. Of course, the degree of difficulty ramps up now, as the Frogs face a pass defense that has 10 interceptions and surrenders just 218 passing yards a game.The big difference could be TCU's improving defense. Fifteen different players have made their first careers starts this season, but they're jelling as their bumps and bruises heal. Oklahoma State's (mostly) punchless running game must make a dent. If the Frogs can shut down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50583" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50583">J.W. Walsh</a>'s scrambling ability and make the Pokes one dimensional, it's curtains for OSU.Keep in mind the Frogs haven't been world-beaters on the road, escaping <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/418" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/418">Minnesota</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a>, and K-State and also having their struggles at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a>. Oklahoma State has a better offense than any of those teams, with their two-quarterback system of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83531" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> through the air and Walsh on the ground.Iowa State at No. 15 Oklahoma Saturday, Nov. 7, 7:00 p.m. ET (ESPNU)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/140242/cropped_USPW_431005.jpg?ts=1446704337"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>This game's profile has risen bit by bit over the last few weeks, as suddenly, Iowa State's been rejuvenated by the emergence of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/73779" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/73779">Joel Lanning</a> at quarterback and naming Todd Sturdy offensive coordinator to replace Mark Mangino. It helps that the Cyclone defense looks like it has grown some teeth after holding <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> to a measly 204 total yards in last week's 24-0 clampdown (and yes, that's the same Texas team that took down Oklahoma a few weeks ago in the Red River Rivalry).The Cyclones had moments of brilliance in their losses to TCU and Baylor before dominating the Longhorns last week. Freshman running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/88795" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/88795">Mike Warren</a> is sitting second in the Big 12 with 119 yards a game. If the Cyclone offensive line can get a good push versus the Sooners' defense, Warren could be the key in terms of ball control.The Sooners' defense is still capable of putting a beatdown on the Cyclones and their youthful playmakers. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64135" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64135">Eric Striker</a> is second in the conference in tackles for loss with 12 and sacks with 6.5, and as usual, he's the key to OU's defensive success.

3 games to watch in the Big 12: Baylor's Stidham gets his chance to shine

The best news of all is that November is finally here. Good riddance to September and October, no...

The best news of all is that November is finally here. Good riddance to September and October, now is where the real season begins in Big 12 play.The teams left sitting at the adult table are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a>, which are a combined 18-1. And better yet, all four teams play each other in the weeks ahead. As Flounder said in "Animal House": "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arZdeg_fL-I">Oh boy is this great!</a>"Here is how the teams currently stack up in the <a href="http://espn.go.com/college-football/statistics/teamratings">ESPN Football Power Index</a>:<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>1. Baylor, 7-0, 26.9 FPI2. TCU, 8-0, 25.5 FPI3. Oklahoma, 7-1, 25.2 FPI14. Oklahoma State, 8-0, 17.0 FPIYes, you are reading correctly, the Big 12 occupies the top three spots in the country in the Football Power Index. And just to prove this isn’t so unbelievable, the <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/sports/ncaaf/sagarin/">Sagarin Rankings</a> have Baylor at No. 3, TCU at No. 4, and Oklahoma at No. 5. OSU chimes in at No. 14 there as well. Of course, the strength of each of their schedules is also at No. 104, No. 53, No. 52, and No. 70, respectively, so there is still much to prove.However, with four national title contenders still viable to make the four-team national playoff, here is how we can break down the biggest games in the Big 12 for the month of November.<h3>Top Five Big 12 Games To Watch in November:</h3>1. Baylor at TCU, Nov. 27A Friday night spotlight, these two teams still have a bit of a gauntlet to go through to get to this game unbeaten, but if they are still perfect then this will become epic.2. TCU at Oklahoma State, Nov. 7<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/139793/cropped_USPW_413458.jpg?ts=1446534926"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>The March Madness-style playoff tips off with this Saturday’s battle of unbeatens in Stillwater.3. TCU at Oklahoma, Nov. 21You could say that this is a trap game for the Horned Frogs, as it will fall six days before their home showdown with Baylor.4. Oklahoma at Baylor, Nov. 14<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/139794/cropped_USPW_439148.jpg?ts=1446535165"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>If the Sooners can get by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a>, this game becomes an elimination game. The Big 12’s best offense (BU) versus the Big 12’s best defense (OU).5. Baylor at Oklahoma State, Nov. 21One high-powered attack versus another high-powered attack. The reason this one is rated down at No. 5 is because we’re not sure if either team will actually be unbeaten at this point.<h3>Big 12 Power Rankings</h3>1. Baylor (last week: 1)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/139608/cropped_USAT_134835.jpg?ts=1446452930"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>The Bears sat idle this week while getting freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93574" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93574">Jarrett Stidham</a> and his 255.7 QB rating ready to assume the controls at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a> this coming Thursday.2. TCU (last week: 2) Yes, not even Slingin' Sammy Baugh led the Frogs to 16 straight wins, which is the streak they’ve got going now. Good to see the defense hold its own in the 40-10 win against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a>.3. Oklahoma State (last week: 3)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/139216/cropped_USAT_154176.jpg?ts=1446332893"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Saturday’s 70-53 win at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a> saw the team climb back from a 17-point deficit, which is the second-largest deficit overcome in a game in program history.4. Oklahoma (last week: 4) How do we know the Sooners are still mad about the loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a>? The Big Red have now outscored their opponents 180-34 in the three games since, including Saturday’s 62-7 pounding of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a>.5. Texas Tech (last week: 5)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/139166/cropped_GettyImages-492180326.jpg?ts=1446323003"><figcaption></figcaption></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54182" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54182">Jakeem Grant</a> notched 178 yards in receptions and 146 yards in kick returns (plus a minus-1 in rushing) to account for 323 all-purpose yards - fourth all-time in Red Raiders history.6. West Virginia (last week: 6) The Mountaineers have now lost four straight games (3-4 overall), giving up 44, 33, 62, and 40 points respectively. But the ESPN FPI gives them a 61 percent chance or better to win their remaining five games.7. Iowa State (last week: 9) The Cyclones could be a team to keep an eye on after shutting down Texas to the tune of 204 yards allowed. Former backup quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/73779" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/73779">Joel Lanning</a> has ignited the offense and given them confidence.8. Kansas State (last week: 8) The Wildcats get their chance to put the screws to Baylor and freshman signal-caller Jarrett Stidham on the national stage this Thursday. Is this going to be a season-turner of a game? Stay tuned.9. Texas (last week: 7) Oh man, just when we thought the Longhorns were reinvigorated, they have curiously regressed once again, losing 23-0 at ISU. Wow.10. Kansas (last week: 10) The Jayhawks started six freshmen on offense in their 62-7 loss to Oklahoma. Better days lie ahead for David Beaty and company.

Big 12 Power Rankings: Conference play is about to get serious

Worry not, Big 12 fans, we are nearing the end of October. The Ali-Frazier heavyweight fights are...

Worry not, Big 12 fans, we are nearing the end of October. The Ali-Frazier heavyweight fights are coming up soon, but first we have to get to the last weekend of the month.Even though five games have been decided in the final minute, there seems to have been very few tremors on the national scale from the Big 12 so far this year. But all the eyes of the nation are going to be on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>, which will look to tack on more style points in their game versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a>. All the eyes of the Big 12 will be on Saturday’s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a> game, as the Cowboys get a big challenge in going to dangerous Lubbock, Texas.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a> is off this week and will be trying to get new quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93574" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93574">Jarrett Stidham</a> as many practice reps as possible before their game at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a> next Thursday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>West Virginia at No. 5 TCU Thursday, Oct. 29, 7:30 p.m. ET (Fox Sports 1)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/136676/cropped_GettyImages-493148098.jpg?ts=1445365940"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Not a lot of big mystery here - the Frogs get the cameras and the Klieg lights all to themselves as they host the spiraling Mountaineers in a Thursday night tilt. If <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> wasn’t front and center in the Heisman voters' minds before, here's his chance to make that happen. The college football stage is all his.The other thing this game represents is the best chance for the Horned Frogs' defense to finally change some minds out there. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83431" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83431">Skyler Howard</a> and company are a good offense, averaging 36 points a game. But by Big 12 standards they are not a great offense. With some bumps and bruises on the mend, this is where the Purple Gang can put the clamps on West Virginia and have some influence on the naysayers out there.Want a clash of the titans-type of stat to keep an eye on? How about the showdown of TCU’s nation-leading third-down offense (55.8% conversion rate) going up against WVU’s ninth-rated third-down defense (holding opponents to a 28.2% conversion rate). If the Mountaineers want to keep the game close, winning that battle will help in spades.No. 12 Oklahoma State at Texas Tech Saturday, Oct. 31, 3:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/138695/cropped_USAT_134221.jpg?ts=1446132254"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Tech has to be chomping at the bit to get to this game, after getting 63 points put on them by Baylor and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> so far this month. Now, unbeaten Oklahoma State comes to town. This is a Cowboys team that won their first three Big 12 games by a combined 12 points. It's also a team that has been playing with a rabbit’s foot in its pocket. Jones Stadium in the middle of this West Texas outpost could be where that luck runs out.The Pokes have some holes in their offense, with coach Mike Gundy admitting "we're not very good at running the ball." They sit ninth in the Big 12 with just 147 yards per game, so establishing that early will be huge.But the big key to this game could lay on the other side of the ball. Tech linebackers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/89494" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/89494">Dakota Allen</a> (77 tackles) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66640" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66640">Micah Awe</a> (69 tackles) are two of the top three tacklers in the conference and must be accounted for by the Cowboys’ on-and-off offensive line. But countering that, OSU leads the conference with 27 sacks and has two of the top sack artists in the league with ends <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64154" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64154">Emmanuel Ogbah</a> (eight sacks) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/53498" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/53498">Jimmy Bean</a> (5.5), who are heat-seekers. To the Raiders' credit, their line has given up just 11 sacks in a Big 12-high 392 pass attempts. Whichever defensive duo shows better here means victory.Texas at Iowa State Saturday, Oct. 31, 7 p.m. ET (Fox Sports 1)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/131677/cropped_GettyImages-487990952.jpg?ts=1443085314"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>While the Longhorns have a new lease on life after stunning unbeaten Oklahoma, this could be the Cyclones' last stand. At 2-5, a loss here means they would have to win out against Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Kansas State, and West Virginia to have any hopes of making it to the postseason.The Cyclones are capable of pulling a W here, but they’ll have to play like they did in the second half of last week’s loss to Baylor to have a shot. The running game buoys some hope, as freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/88795" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/88795">Mike Warren</a> has burgeoned into a Newcomer of the Year candidate, having run for 707 yards and 6.6 yards per carry behind a line that has shown promise.While the Longhorns' new two-quarterback system of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/87412" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/87412">Jerrod Heard</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/71653" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/71653">Tyrone Swoopes</a> has gelled well in the last few weeks, the Cyclones appear to have switched from senior <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/59857" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/59857">Sam B. Richardson</a> to sophomore <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/73779" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/73779">Joel Lanning</a> at the controls. In his 12 offensive drives, Lanning has led the 'Clones to six touchdowns, and gave them a real shot in the arm against Baylor last week. Head coach Paul Rhoads has officially announced the switch for this key game.

3 games to watch in the Big 12: Boykin, TCU need to make a statement vs. West Virginia

Mike Gundy preaches focus. In games, during the week, and during the entire season.  His Oklahoma...

Mike Gundy preaches focus. In games, during the week, and during the entire season.His <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State Cowboys</a> needed to muster more focus than ever before in Saturday's matchup with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a>. During the homecoming parade before the game, a woman struck a crowd of Cowboys fans with her vehicle, killing four and injuring dozens more.Not long after the tragedy, the Cowboys managed to maintain their composure and focus on the task at hand, playing one of their most complete games of the season en route to a 58-10 win over Kansas.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>It wasn't the first time Oklahoma State dealt with catastrophe and personal loss.In 2011, the Cowboys were unbeaten, ranked No. 2 in the country, and had a shot at a BCS title game appearance when a plane crash took the lives of women’s basketball coach Kurt Budke and assistant coach Miranda Serna.The next night the Pokes came out flat against a middle-of-the-road <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a> team and lost 37-31 in overtime in front of a frenzied Jack Trice Stadium crowd. While that turned out to be their only loss that season - which they finished 12-1 - it meant they wouldn't compete for the national title.This week's Kansas game didn't carry quite the same weight, but Gundy said he and his team handled the situation as best they could."It was just hard on everybody because it effected all of us," the head coach said. "We were as honest as possible with the players that the decision had been made to play the game. So you just don't have any alternative. We tried to focus as best as we can and control the things we could control."As the OSU community continues to heal, the Cowboys must shift their focus on a tough trip to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a> this week."We have to do the very best that we can to stay focused, have good practices and then help out the families when we can," Gundy said. "We have to come together as a group. The players' maturity, leadership and confidence are really important when it comes to playing on the road."As <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a> can attest, Lubbock, Texas, has proven to be a tough place to pull out a win. Gundy understands his team must stay sharp."Each week is different, predictions are so hard to make with young people," he said. "But I do like their chemistry, their work ethic and they way they've stayed focused to get better each day. If they lose focus during the week it’s extremely difficult to win on the road."Here's a look at how the Big 12 shakes down after Week 8 with the conference power rankings:Big 12 Power Rankings1. Baylor (last week: 1) Injuries. Injuries. Injuries. Not only is quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66289" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66289">Seth Russell</a> lost for the year, but nose guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76499" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76499">Andrew Billings</a> didn't play versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a> in a game which the Bears allowed 232 rushing yards.2. TCU (last week: 2) If <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> wants to pick up some more Heisman Trophy points, this week's game versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a> will have him in the Thursday night spotlight.3. Oklahoma State (last week: 3) The Cowboys overcame tragedy and stayed focused enough to rout Kansas 58-10. They're 7-0 but have Texas Tech, TCU, Iowa State, Baylor, and Oklahoma left. Yikes.4. Oklahoma (last week: 5)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/137662/cropped_USAT_143802.jpg?ts=1445732424"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>So there's the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/82727" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/82727">Samaje Perine</a> we've been waiting for, with 201 rushing yards and four touchdowns in the 63-27 rout of Texas Tech. The Sooners look rejuvenated.5. Texas Tech (last week: 4) Since taking TCU to the wire on Sept. 26, the Red Raiders have been blown out badly by Baylor and Oklahoma and struggled to beat last-place Kansas.6. West Virginia (last week: 7) The Mountaineers really needed this bye week to recharge. Entering this week's game against TCU, they've lost three straight, giving up 139 points in the process.7. Texas (last week: 8) The Longhorns keep the momentum going, downing Kansas State 23-9 in the rain. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/71653" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/71653">Tyrone Swoopes </a>has become a good goal-line weapon, scoring a pair of touchdown runs in the red zone.8. Kansas State (last week: 7) That's four straight Big 12 losses for the Purple Cats. Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54103" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54103">Joe Hubener</a> continues to struggle in Big 12 play, going 30-for-78 with five interceptions and a touchdown in the four games.9. Iowa State (last week: 9) Cyclones running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/88795" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/88795">Mike Warren</a> did it again, pock-marking the Baylor defense for 145 yards in 28 carries. But four turnovers sunk the Cyclones' chances down in Waco, Texas.10. Kansas (last week: 10) The Jayhawks had just 221 total yards, nine first downs, 22:37 time of possession, and 10 penalties for 122 yards in the loss at Oklahoma State. A winless season is likely.

Big 12 Power Rankings: Cowboys keep focus on the field

Critics have called Baylor head coach Art Briles' offense a "plug-and-play" unit with a "system" ...

Critics have called <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a> head coach Art Briles' offense a "plug-and-play" unit with a "system" quarterback. Well, now that system will be put to the test in hyper-mode.Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66289" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66289">Seth Russell</a> assumed the starting role this season and was putting up Heisman Trophy numbers while leading the Bears to a 7-0 start. But Baylor lost the starter for the rest of the season after he suffered a neck injury in the fourth quarter of a 45-27 win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a>.Now, Briles will turn the offense over to freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93574" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93574">Jarrett Stidham</a>, a four-star recruit who has played mostly mop-up duty this season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We certainly have plenty of confidence in Jarrett," the coach said in a teleconference Monday. "He is beyond his years maturity-wise. He doesn't seem like a freshman or perform like a freshman. He's a guy that is instinctively and athletically ready to play."We felt all along that he was in line to be a productive player for us and our team will rally around him."Baylor's bye week couldn't have come at a better time as the Bears will take this weekend off to prepare for a game at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a> on Nov. 5."I think the extra week of practice is critical," Briles said. "It will give him more work with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66279" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66279">Kyle Fuller</a>, our center and give him time to get more cohesive with our running backs and get the timing down with our receivers because he's primarily been throwing to our twos in practice."So far this season, Stidham has gone 24-of-28 for 331 yards and six touchdowns for a passing efficiency rating of 255.7. He can do even more damage with many talented offensive weapons to lean on."With the offensive line we have and the dynamic skill players we have, it makes all the difference in the world for Jarrett," Briles added. "It certainly takes a lot of pressure off the situation. But he certainly is a capable player. I believe he is ready."<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/71587" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/71587">Chris Johnson</a>, a quarterback who moved to receiver earlier this season, will move back to the quarterback position in a backup role. After their game at Kansas State, the Bears will play <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> and back-to-back road games at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>, both of which are currently undefeated.

Baylor in good hands with Stidham at QB

Heading into Week 8 of the college football season, there are still three unbeaten teams in the B...

Heading into Week 8 of the college football season, there are still three unbeaten teams in the Big 12. That's 30 percent of the teams in the conference that are still perfect. No other conference can make that claim.It is highly unlikely that status will change this week as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a> hosts <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State </a>and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a> plays last-place <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a>, which has lost 32 straight road games.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628"> TCU</a>, the other remaining perfect team, will join <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a> on the sidelines this week to mend some wounds.Oh sure, there's not much drama expected from the Big 12 this week. Then again, with the offenses we've seen this year, an "upset Saturday" is never out of the question.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Texas Tech at No. 17 Oklahoma Saturday, Oct. 24, 3:30 p.m. ET (ABC/ESPN2)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/137267/cropped_USAT_134450.jpg?ts=1445575945"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Call this the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> Bowl.The current Sooner quarterback and former <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a> QB will be in the spotlight here as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> tries to stay in contention for the Big 12 title against a Texas Tech defense looking to put the hurt on their Benedict Arnold-esque former teammate. While the Sooners are coming off a remarkable 55-0 blasting at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a>, the Red Raiders had some "oh no" moments in their escape from last-place Kansas last week, getting a pick-6 in the latter stages of the fourth quarter to solidify the 30-20 win.Whether quarterbacks <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/89514" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> and Mayfield stay upright will be a huge indicator of who will win this game, as the Sooner defense is fourth in the nation with 21 sacks - but their offensive line has allowed 19 sacks, 116th in the country. Look for both defenses to go pell-mell for the other quarterback and hope to pressure the offenses into some turnovers.Mayfield is fourth in the country with a passing efficiency rating of 180.1 and leads the Big 12 with a 67 percent completion rate. But as we saw versus Texas, if there's enough pressure on him, his game can become shaky.Kansas State at Texas Saturday, Oct. 24, 12:00 p.m. ET (FOX Sports 1)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/137269/cropped_USPW_421767.jpg?ts=1445576358"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Is this the battle for a bowl bid?With <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> coming in 2-4 and the Wildcats sliding down to 3-3, having lost three straight, this matchup could conceivably be a keystone game in deciding which team heads to the postseason. This should be the Longhorns' toughest game in their next four. After this, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a> has Baylor and a trip to Texas Tech, which are nearly sure to be losses. A win here is vital for both.The last time we saw these two, they were ships passing in opposite directions, as Texas stunned previously unbeaten Oklahoma and the Wildcats were pasted 55-0 by that same Sooner squad. Which way will these two trend? A lot depends on whether the clampdown on<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/87412" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/87412"> Jerrod Heard</a> continues. He was hot early, but defenses have figured out how to contain him. If he gets unleashed, look for a Longhorn win here.It may not be the Longhorns' year, but having signed a 15-year licensing and apparel <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/860020" href="http://www.thescore.com/news/860020">deal with Nike</a> this week, they still have all the factors necessary to be a major player in the sport for decades to come. Get your shots in on them while you can.Iowa State at No. 3 Baylor Saturday, Oct. 24, 12:00 p.m. ET (ESPN)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/137270/cropped_USPW_390695.jpg?ts=1445576508"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>This one may be over in the first five minutes. Even Iowa State coach Paul Rhoads knows the monstrous hill his team must climb, <a href="http://www.big12sports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_LANG=C&amp;ATCLID=210436306&amp;DB_OEM_ID=10410">saying</a> earlier this week, "It's absurd … 720 yards and 64 points per game. To beat those guys, you'll have to score in the 50s."Baylor field general <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66289" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66289">Seth Russell</a> tops the FBS with an 88.9 total QBR and has seamlessly integrated himself into the high-powered offense, showing aplomb both passing and rushing. Of course, a weapon like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66275" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66275">Corey Coleman</a> is a luxury. Coleman needs just one more TD catch to tie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/74324" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/74324">Rashard Higgins</a>' FBS-best 17 touchdown catches from last year.The only thing that makes this game somewhat intriguing is the chance that complacency could overtake the Bears and give hope to the Cyclones. But the odds of that happening are equivalent to getting struck by lightning. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/59857" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/59857">Sam B. Richardson </a>must take care of the ball, as he has six picks in 200 attempts. It will also help if the Cyclone line makes some lanes for freshman running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/88795" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/88795">Mike Warren</a> (652 yards) so they can control the ball and keep the Bears' offense on the sidelines.

3 games to watch in the Big 12: Oklahoma's Mayfield gets his shot at Texas Tech

"That No. 1 is the best player in college football," the tired voice said. "You can put me on rec...

"That No. 1 is the best player in college football," the tired voice said. "You can put me on record for saying that. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66275" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66275">Corey Coleman</a> is the best football player in college football."That was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a> head coach Dana Holgerson in the postgame interview after his team's loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>, looking like a man who'd run out of answers.Coleman, the mercurial Bears wideout, caught his 14th, 15th, and 16th touchdown catches of the year in Baylor's 62-38 win. Yes, 16 scores. It’s mid-October, people. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>To put those numbers in perspective, last year's Biletnikoff Award winner, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/60608" href="http://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/60608">Amari Cooper</a> of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/40" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/40">Alabama</a>, had 16 total touchdowns the entire season.Coleman ended the game with 10 catches for 199 yards and those three scores to help the No. 2-ranked Bears keep their Big 12 and national playoff hopes alive."He's as good as I've seen," Holgerson said in the weekly Big 12 coaches teleconference. "His strength is above average, as is his quickness. I don’t know if we tackled him the whole game. He had 10 touches with three touchdowns, so I don't recall if we tackled him at all."For the season, Coleman now has 41 catches for 877 yards to go along with his 16 markers. Proving his game-changing status, in addition to leading all receivers in touchdowns, he is also second nationally in receiving yards per game with 142.6, despite having caught just 6.8 passes a game."He's got unbelievable top-end speed," <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a> coach David Beaty said this week. "But he's turned into more than just a speed guy. He's got so much agility. If you don't get your hands on him, he'll just go right past you. If try to play him with just one man on him, it's going to be a long day."If Coleman's production stays even remotely consistent, Troy Edwards' FBS touchdown-receiving record of 27 could easily be toppled.The only down side to Corey Coleman? He's a junior. Coach Art Briles is hoping he comes back for one more season, but with the freakishly talented receiver high on every NFL team's draft board, Briles is hoping against hope.Here's a look at how the Big 12 shakes down after Week 7 with the conference power rankings:<h3>Big 12 Power Rankings</h3>1. Baylor (last week: 1) With another monster offensive performance, the Bears join the 2008 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma Sooners</a> as the only team in the modern era to score 50-plus in six straight games.2. TCU (last week: 2) What do you know, a road game in which the Frogs did not struggle. Now a week off to heal some defensive wounds and get ready for November’s rigorous stretch run.3. Oklahoma State (last week: 3) The Cowboys have one thing on their side that the other contenders don't: a defense. Question is, can their offensive line open some running lanes when they play <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">OU</a>?4. Texas Tech (last week: 4)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/136112/cropped_GettyImages-493091286.jpg?ts=1445112917"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>A tougher-than-expected win at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a>. But how about that offensive line? They've given up just seven sacks in 346 passing attempts this season.5. Oklahoma (last week: 5) The Sooners are 35-0 in regular season games following a loss since 1999. Rub your eyes. Do a double take. That's not a mirage. These guys are the Jekyll &amp; Hyde of the Big 12. 6. West Virginia (last week: 7) Only in the Big 12 can you have 471 total yards and get 22 first downs and still lose. West Virginia has now lost three straight, giving up 139 points in the process.7. Kansas State (last week: 6) What a lost weekend for the Wildcats. They suffered their first shutout since 1996 - a span of 234 consecutive games - and their worst loss in the Bill Snyder era.8. Texas (last week: 8)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/123400/cropped_USPW_432825.jpg?ts=1437841879"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Will the Longhorns maintain the momentum from the Oklahoma win? Suddenly, their next five games look winnable against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a>, Kansas, West Virginia, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a>.9. Iowa State (last week: 9) From the frying pan into the fire. The Cyclones must rebound from their thumping at the hands of TCU and get ready for the Baylor juggernaut.10. Kansas (last week: 10) Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/97050" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/97050">Ryan Willis</a> set freshman records for attempts (50), completions (35), and yards (330) in a game in the Saturday loss.

Big 12 Power Rankings: Corey Coleman helping Baylor soar to new heights

There are only four games in the Big 12 this weekend and none feature a matchup of ranked teams. ...

There are only four games in the Big 12 this weekend and none feature a matchup of ranked teams. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> take the weekend off to make a few small repairs, and only the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a> game is expected to be close. But you know this is a highly offensive conference, and an upset could be creeping around the corner. So stay tuned.Speaking of offense, this is a good time to remind the college football world of the high quality of play in the Big 12 so far this season. Not only are there two of the top three-ranked teams in the country with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>, but the conference is home to seven of the top 31 teams in the <a href="http://sagarin.com/sports/cfsend.htm">Sagarin Rankings</a>. The Big 12 tops the FBS in total offense with 490 yards per game, led by the top three offenses in the country. Baylor ranks No. 1 with 725 yards and 64.2 points per game, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech </a>is No. 2 with 631 yards and 52.7 points per game, and TCU sits at No. 3 with 615 yards and 51.0 points per game.West Virginia at No. 2 Baylor Saturday, Oct. 17, 12 p.m. ET (FOX)<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/135838/cropped_USAT_116595.jpg?ts=1444974114"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Let’s face it, a Mountaineer win here would be a monumental upset, especially with the Bears holding the nation’s longest home win streak at 18 games. But remember, last season the ‘Neers put a solid 47-27 whoopin’ on the Bears in Morgantown. Then again, this isn’t the same Bears they tussled with last season. This 2015 version is a bona fide juggernaut.Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66289" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66289">Seth Russell</a> has morphed seamlessly into the starting role, leading the FBS in passing efficiency (210.7), passing TDs (22), and passing yards per attempt (11.8). <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a> has its hands full trying to contain the Russell-to-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66275" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66275">Corey Coleman</a> connection, as the wideout leads the nation in TD catches (13) and scoring (15.6 points per game). But the Mountaineer defense is nothing to sneeze at, ranking second best in the conference, allowing 342 yards a game. This will be an interesting matchup.Baylor's offense is also versatile. People easily forget the Bears rank second in the country in rushing yards (357 yards per game), and running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/66284" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/66284">Shock Linwood</a> is in the top 10 nationally as well, running for 719 yards through five games.No. 19 Oklahoma at Kansas State Saturday, Oct. 17, 3:30 p.m. ET (ABC)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/135839/cropped_USPW_413373.jpg?ts=1444974570"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>It’s the teacher versus the student, as Bill Snyder will square off with former assistant Bob Stoops in the Little Apple.These two teams have had their confidence broken the last few weeks. The Wildcats come in having lost their last two games in excruciatingly late fashion, losing at Oklahoma State on a last-second field goal and then blowing a 35-17 halftime lead at home against TCU, then losing on a late touchdown. Meanwhile, Oklahoma lost a stunner to archrival Texas last week. That’s enough to slump the shoulders of any Sooners fan.The big key will be if the Wildcats can put massive amounts of pressure on Sooners QB <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> like the Longhorns did. If the Sooners' offensive line is still Swiss cheese, advantage Wildcats. Also, look out for wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/64132" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/64132">Sterling Shepard</a>, who torched the Wildcats for an OU-record 15 catches in last year’s game. The KSU defense has its work cut out for it. Oddly, coach Stoops has to be feeling good going into this one as he's won all five games he’s coached in Manhattan, and all of them by double digits. That, and the strong desire to get the bad taste of the Texas loss out of their mouths, is enough to pick the Sooners to make amends here.No. 3 TCU at Iowa State Saturday, Oct. 17, 7 p.m. ET (ESPN2)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/135842/cropped_USPW_482689.jpg?ts=1444975252"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>There’s no way the Cyclones can pull the upset here, right? Well once again we’ll remind you of how the Horned Frogs tend to play down to the level of their competition on the road. The Purple Gang barely escaped <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/418" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/418">Minnesota</a> (23-17), Texas Tech (55-52), and Kansas State (52-45) in their other three road games this season.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a> is given a little benefit of the doubt here with versatile QB <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/59857" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/59857">Sam B. Richardson</a> leading the offensive attack against an injury-filled Frog defense, and also the emergence of freshman running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/88795" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/88795">Mike Warren</a>, who has three straight 100-yard games. If those two get some blocking and stay hot, the ‘Clones could melt some clock and cut this game in half.But the problem is that the Cyclones' defense is rated No. 101 in the country, giving up 430 yards a game to their opponents. Just imagine what <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50212" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50212">Aaron Green</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50793" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50793">Josh Doctson</a> will do to this defense? Oy vey, it could get ugly early.

3 games to watch in the Big 12: West Virginia aims for another Baylor upset

A popular refrain is a team with two quarterbacks truly has no quarterbacks.  Just don't tell tha...

A popular refrain is a team with two quarterbacks truly has no quarterbacks.Just don't tell that to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma State</a> head coach Mike Gundy. He's fine with having starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83531" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50583" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50583">J.W. Walsh</a> in the bullpen to help his team win games."I've never been a big fan of having two quarterbacks," Gundy said on Monday. "But it has worked for us so far this season and there is a need for that for this football team."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The last three games have seen the Cowboys make great rallies to pull out a trio of close-shave wins against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a>.On Saturday, Walsh came off the pine once again to spell Rudolph in a raucous Milan Puskar Stadium. Even though he won his eighth straight game as the starting quarterback, Rudolph threw three interceptions and was largely ineffective for much of the game, despite throwing for 437 yards the week before vs. Kansas State.WVU was able to overcome a 15-point deficit to send the game into overtime. Enter Walsh. And enter the previously dormant running game. The Pokes made six straight runs in their first possession of the extra period, culminating in Walsh's two-yard TD plunge on a tricky fourth-and-goal."We changed our formation because, before that, West Virginia had stuffed our running game," Gundy said. "So we knew we needed something different. Once we got to fourth and less than two, a field goal was not an option. We felt that if we had kicked a field goal it would’ve just energized that stadium so we felt we had to score a touchdown to stop their momentum."Rudolph is still his starting quarterback, having completed 63 percent of his throws for 1,892 yards so far this season. He also busted out a 40-yard scramble versus WVU."We have to try to keep Mason in the fold," Gundy said when asked about platooning his starter. "We have to keep it to where he feels like a layoff between series won't effect his play. We don't know if we have an answer for that but we're trying to avoid that situation."Still, Gundy appears to love having a two-headed monster."There's no doubt that quarterbacks who can run and scramble and can run the read option are effective," Gundy said. "Sometimes running the ball is our best option for moving the team in the red zone, so we are willing to take that risk."That system is working well for the Cowboys as they improved to 6-0 with the win. And yes, Gundy is fully aware that dates with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/628" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/628">TCU</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/81" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/81">Baylor</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> come up in November.Here's a look at how the Big 12 shakes down after Week 6 with the conference power rankings:<h3>Big 12 Power Rankings</h3>1. Baylor (last week: 2) The Bears' string of glorified scrimmages will continue until they finish up with Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and TCU. The highlight versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a> was seeing 6-foot-7, 410-pound <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/55483" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/55483">LaQuan McGowan</a>'s TD catch.2. TCU (last week: 1)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/134837/cropped_USAT_126482.jpg?ts=1444534361"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Another road game, another struggle for the Frogs. But they had 17 plays for 203 yards and held Kansas State to 17 plays for 40 yards in a furious fourth-quarter rally. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> gets a Heisman push.3. Oklahoma State (last week: 4) Is there a more exciting team in the nation? Three straight panic-time wins. Though this time, the Cowboys lost a 15-point lead before winning in overtime.4. Texas Tech (last week: 6​) Odd to praise the defense here but the Raiders got three interceptions and held Cyclones quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/59857" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/59857">Sam Richardson</a> to 10-of-21 and just 139 yards. OK, so the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a> offense did have a program-high 776 total yards.5. Oklahoma (last week: 3) Sooner nightmare. The defense gave up 313 yards rushing and their offensive line surrendered six sacks, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> was pressured relentlessly. 6. Kansas State (last week: 5) Ouch. The upset bid comes up just short again. The Power Cats led 35-17 at halftime vs. No. 3 TCU, but bogged down when it mattered late.7. West Virginia (last week: 7) The Mountaineers out-gained OSU 444-to-362 but was felled by four turnovers, which led to 17 Cowboys points.8. Texas (last week: 9)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/123400/cropped_USPW_432825.jpg?ts=1437841879"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>A program-turning win? A blip on the radar? Either way, the look of relief on Charlie Strong's countenance was nearly as remarkable as his team's voracious pass rush versus Mayfield.9. Iowa State (last week: 8) Only good news was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/88795" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/88795">Mike Warren</a> ran for 245 yards on 23 carries, his third straight 100-plus-yard game.10. Kansas (last week: 10) Ugh, poor woebegone Jayhawks. Injuries to their top two quarterbacks means freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/97050" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/97050">Ryan Willis</a> will struggle versus Baylor.

Big 12 Power Rankings: Oklahoma State goes to 2-quarterback system

According to the oddsmakers, this isn’t the best week to be watching Big 12 football. Only one ga...

According to the oddsmakers, this isn’t the best week to be watching Big 12 football. Only one game has a single-digit point spread, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/510" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/510">Oklahoma State</a>-­<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">West Virginia</a> game. But with the high -octane offenses we see throughout the conference, never discount the chances for an upset.With that in mind, here are this week's Big Three in the Big 12.2 TCU at Kansas State Saturday, Oct. 10, 7:30 p.m. ET (FOX)<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/133441/cropped_USAT_116201.jpg?ts=1443902055"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Purple on purple crime. If for no other reason, this one could get dicey due to the Horned Frogs' penchant for playing rather mediocre on the road so far this season. Raucous Snyder Stadium lives for night games against nationally ranked opponents like this. Don't be surprised if this is another white­knuckler in the Little Apple.All things being equal though, this should be TCU's game. What the Frogs showed last week versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> was scary. The offense was clicking on all cylinders and the defense ... well, the defense finally showed up and dominated a previously­ slick Longhorn offense.After the first quarter of that game, the Frogs had a 22­1 advantage in total yards. But the Cats have a much better defense than Texas and rank third nationally allowing just 71 yards a game on the ground. Not that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/52832" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/52832">Trevone Boykin</a> will mind throwing the ball, but he'll need to be on top of his game for the Frogs to pull the W here.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/50793" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/50793">Josh Doctson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/93595" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/93595">KaVontae Turpin</a> must be licking their chops knowing they'll face a Wildcat secondary that gives up an average of 288 passing yards per game against teams like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/575" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/575">South Dakota</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/366" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/366">Louisiana Tech</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/768" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/768">Texas-­San Antonio</a>. But if K-­State quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/54103" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/54103">Joe Hubener</a> is back from injury ­ he is expected to be ­ and he can mix up the Frogs D with adept scrambling and pop passes to the flat, this one could be close for three quarters.2­ Oklahoma State at West Virginia Saturday, Oct. 10, 7 p.m. ET (ESPN2)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/126472/cropped_USPW_363717.jpg?ts=1440049357"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Will the lucky rabbit’s foot finally stop working for the Cowboys?They have had good fortune on their side, that’s for sure, as they’ve escaped with last- second wins at Texas and vs. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/329" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/329">Kansas State</a> in back to back weeks. The other thing they’ve had on their side is a great kicker in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76469" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76469">Ben Grogan</a>, who is so calm he might want to be checked for a pulse. But it’s not all luck for OSU because these guys can play some defense, surrendering an average of just 310 yards per game, best in the Big 12.They’ll need to be at their best here too as Mountaineers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83431" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83431">Skyler Howard</a> looks to shake off a five turnover performance at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> (three interceptions, two fumbles). The biggest key will be if the WVU line can stave off the pass rush of the Pokes. Oklahoma was able to pepper Howard with pressure, especially in the second half where they pulled away from the ‘Neers. The Cowboys lead the country in sacks with 22 through five games.Look for WVU to lean on a more balanced attack as Wendell Smallwood and Rushel Shell establish the ground game and control the clock more. OSU quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/83531" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> can be hot­ and ­cold at times, but look for him to test the Mountaineer defense with deep routes on Saturday as WVU will miss All American safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/60747" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/60747">Karl Joseph</a>, who was lost for the year with a knee injury in practice this week.3­ Oklahoma at Texas Saturday, Oct. 10, Noon ET (ABC)<figure><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/130890/cropped_GettyImages-489183920.jpg?ts=1442701903"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>It’s hard to believe this traditional rivalry would not be the biggest game in the Big 12, if not the entire country. But these are the times we are living in.This one is pretty simple, will OU quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/76543" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/76543">Baker Mayfield</a> sling the ball unabated through what has been a porous Texas defense? And will UT quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/87412" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/players/87412">Jerrod Heard</a> get solid play­calling from Offensive coordinator Jay Norvell and keep the Sooner defense on its heels and give the Burnt Orange a chance in this one?Mayfield, who ranks third in the Big 12 in total offense with 380 yards per game and second in efficiency with a 178.5 rating, will be facing the Longhorns for the second time. In 2013 he was the starting quarterback for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/642" href="http://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/642">Texas Tech</a> in a 41­13 loss on Thanksgiving Day.Keep a keen eye on the fourth quarter because that is where the Sooners hit their stride. OU has outscored the opposition 34­7 in the fourth quarter of its games so far this year. If Texas can keep it close and make it a nip­and­tuck game, win or lose it will bring some relief to a team that is in self­turmoil going into the game.

3 games to watch in the Big 12: Oklahoma, TCU look to stay perfect

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/eric-sorenson/content_cards