Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. BYU Cougars: A Clash in the Big 12 Conference
As the drama of college football unfolds, one of the most anticipated matchups this Friday night sees the Oklahoma State Cowboys take on the 13th-ranked BYU Cougars. Both teams find themselves on divergent trajectories, making this contest a crucial moment in the Big 12 Conference race. Kickoff is set for 10:15 p.m. ET at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah.
The Stakes
Oklahoma State (3-3, 0-3 Big 12) is currently struggling, having dropped three straight games, including a disappointing 38-14 loss to West Virginia on October 5. After a week off, the Cowboys are looking to break their losing streak and regain their footing in the competitive landscape of the Big 12. With a record of 1-1 on the road, they face a daunting challenge against a high-flying BYU team.
In stark contrast, BYU (6-0, 3-0 Big 12) enters this matchup with momentum, coming off a commanding 41-19 victory over Arizona, marking their third double-digit win of the season. The Cougars are on their best start since their 2020 run of nine consecutive wins and are hungry for another conference title, which they haven’t secured since their days in the Mountain West back in 2007.
Betting Odds and Trends
Betting odds reflect the buzz surrounding this game, with BYU initially favored by 6.5 points, which has now risen to 9.5. The over/under for total points scored stands at 53. Note the recent trends: Oklahoma State is struggling against the spread, with just 1-4 ATS against FBS competition this season. Conversely, BYU has an outstanding record of 5-0 ATS against FBS opponents, further underscoring their early-season dominance.
Key Players to Watch
BYU Cougars: Stars of the Offense and Defense
In the receiving corps, Darius Lassiter has emerged as a primary target for quarterback Keaton Slovis, showcasing his ability with 21 receptions for 321 yards and three touchdowns this season. Lassiter’s explosive performance against Arizona—five catches for 86 yards—illustrates his capability to stretch the field and make big plays. His synergy with Slovis could be pivotal for BYU’s offensive strategy.
On defense, Jack Kelly, a redshirt junior linebacker, has made his presence felt. With a team-high three sacks and solid stats across the board, including 21 tackles and five tackles for loss, Kelly is a key figure to watch. His ability to disrupt Oklahoma State’s offensive rhythm could very well dictate the outcome of the game.
Oklahoma State Cowboys: Resilience Under Pressure
On the other side, Oklahoma State’s fortunes hinge on the leadership of Alan Bowman, a redshirt senior quarterback. Though his position is under scrutiny as the Cowboys contemplate utilizing sophomore Garret Rangel, Bowman’s experience could be invaluable. Rangel’s brief appearances suggest he has the potential to light up the field, completing 11 of 24 attempts for 141 yards and one touchdown.
The Cowboys also boast a talented receiving core, with De’Zhaun Stribling and Brennan Presley each contributing significantly this season, both with four touchdown receptions. This duo will need to step up to revitalize Oklahoma State’s offense against a formidable BYU defense.
The Defensive Battle
Defensively, Trey Rucker, a sixth-year safety, leads the Cowboys with 69 tackles, including 40 solo ones. His seasoned experience and knack for big plays—evidenced by two interceptions this season—make him a crucial asset for Oklahoma State. Rucker’s performance in the secondary could be a game-changer, especially if he can put pressure on BYU’s passing game.
Predictions and Projections
As anticipation builds for this clash, SportsLine’s projection model leans towards the over for total points, estimating around 54 combined points in the game. Additionally, the model indicates that one side of the spread has historically performed well over 50% of the time—a statistic that promises to intrigue bettors and fans alike.
As Friday night approaches, the stakes are high for both teams. For BYU, a win solidifies their status as contenders within the Big 12, while Oklahoma State seeks to turn the tide on their rocky season. All eyes will be on LaVell Edwards Stadium as fans gear up for what promises to be an exciting and revealing matchup in college football’s ever-evolving landscape.
