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WACO, Texas — Oklahoma State finally found a consistent offensive presence, but couldn’t pull off a victory last week at BYU.
Baylor had an offensive explosion in a rout of Texas Tech.
Neither team has been all that great defensively, but a couple key stops might be the biggest influence on the final score when the Cowboys and Bears meet at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at McLane Stadium, broadcast by ESPN+.
Here’s a look at the matchup breakdown:
More: What is Oklahoma State football’s most likely path to bowl eligibility?
Tulsa quarterback Kirk Francis (11) is sacked by Oklahoma State safety Kendal Daniels (5) and Oklahoma State safety Trey Rucker (9) in the second half during an NCAA football game between Oklahoma State and Tulsa in Tulsa, Okla., on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024.
When Oklahoma State runs the ball
This week, the question is less about whether Oklahoma State can run the ball. The Pokes finally showed their capabilities against BYU. The bigger question is, how often will Alan Bowman run the ball? The run game got off to a good start because of the boost provided by the quarterback run game — primarily Garret Rangel before his injury, but also Bowman afterward. So maybe Bowman gets some opportunities to run, but the Cowboys also have to protect him with only true freshmen behind him, led by Maealiuaki Smith as the backup.
When Oklahoma State throws the ball
Obviously, with Bowman back in the saddle, this is an area fans will be watching intently. Bowman was solid last week, completing 11 of 19 passes for 81 yards with a touchdown and an interception. But in the three weeks prior, he had barely completed half his passes with four touchdowns and six interceptions. The Cowboys don’t need him to be a star. They just need him not to give the ball away.
When Baylor runs the ball
The Bears haven’t been frighteningly good…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/oklahoma-state-football-contain-baylor-104524943.html
Author : The Oklahoman
Publish date : 2024-10-25 10:45:24
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