Oklahoma State climbs in Big 12 Power Rankings after top 25 victory
The Big 12 enters week six with three Top 25 teams and one massive rivalry game on the docket, while Iowa State, Kansas State, Kansas, and Oklahoma State enjoy open dates.
There is plenty at stake even with a lighter schedule as the midway point of the season draws closer and the conference race deepens. Ahead of Saturday's intriguing slate of games, here are my weekly Big 12 power rankings.
1. OKLAHOMA — W 37-31 at Kansas State
Last week's win over Kansas State got way too dicey near the end, but the Sooners did see better showings from QB Spencer Rattler and RB Kennedy Brooks. Just in time as a fascinating edition of the Red River rivalry looms.
Up Next: Cotton Bowl vs. #21 Texas, 11:00 am
2. OKLAHOMA STATE — W 24-14 vs. Baylor
Give credit where it's due. The Cowboys have a stellar defense and enough firepower on offense to be formidable. They've won close games and are highly physical. I'm not buying them as Big 12 Champs yet, but the better Spencer Sanders plays, the more intriguing they'll become. The 5-0 Pokes get two weeks to prepare for a trip to Austin. Depending on what happens at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Gundy's team may be revving up for a significant Top 25/Big 12 showdown.
Up Next: OPEN
3. TEXAS — W 32-27 at TCU
The Longhorns have been on an offensive tear since the loss to Arkansas, largely thanks to Bijan Robinson and the rushing attack. QB Casey Thompson is a steady hand but remains unproven, hitting the longer throws. We all know what this game means, and if Texas prevails, get ready for the ensuing media attention that will follow.
Up Next: Cotton Bowl vs. #6 Oklahoma, 11:00 am
4. BAYLOR — L 24-14 at Oklahoma State
Saturday's performance in Stillwater left a lot to be desired, mainly from an offensive standpoint. Dave Aranda was quick to identify and address issues this week, but the challenge of scoring points doesn't get any easier against West Virginia. As a result, all eyes will be on Gerry Bohanon and the passing game. And potentially, the return of linebacker Terrel Bernard.
Up Next: Home vs. West Virginia, 11:00 am
5. IOWA STATE — W 59-7 vs. Kansas
A home matchup with Kansas was just what the doctor ordered for the Cyclones. As expected, they won comfortably, and the crowd enjoyed a stress-free Saturday. Now, a much-needed break, followed by a 7-game gauntlet that includes road trips to Manhattan, Morgantown, Lubbock, and Norman and home contests vs. Oklahoma State, Texas, and TCU. n
Up Next: OPEN
6. TCU — L 32-27 vs. Texas
Gary Patterson has quoted up a storm following consecutive losses to SMU and Texas, so imagine what a loss in Lubbock might do. Last week, turnovers doomed the Frogs, who now head out for their first road trip of the season. Safe to say they need a win. I'm curious to see how many carries RB Zach Evans receives if they find themselves in a close game.
Up Next: at Texas Tech, 6:00 pm
7. KANSAS STATE — L 37-31 vs. Oklahoma
The Wildcats' surprised everyone with QB Skylar Thompson's sooner than expected return to the lineup last week, but it wasn't enough to upset OU for a third straight season. However, K-State hung tough, per usual, and Thompson being back is big news moving forward. Now, Kliemann's squad gets a needed bye week to regroup and extra time to prepare for hosting Iowa State.
Up Next: OPEN
8. WEST VIRGINIA — L 23-20 vs. Texas Tech
The Mountaineers have suffered back-to-back heartbreaking losses to OU and Texas Tech. Neal Brown's team has been competitive in every game this season but just hasn't finished. The run game remains stifled, but QB Jarret Doege had his best performance passing in a WVU uniform last week. In addition, the defense is short on weaknesses.
Up Next: at Baylor, 11:00 am
9. TEXAS TECH — W 23-20 at West Virginia
Give credit to Matt Wells. His seat remains warm, but RaiderLand got a dose of renewed optimism following a scrappy win in Morgantown. Yes, they nearly blew a 17-0 lead, and yes, the loss to Texas was embarrassing, but Tech is 4-1 despite a laundry list of injuries and is rallying behind their head coach. Transfer WR Kaylon Geiger is proving to be an excellent addition. It's Homecoming weekend in Lubbock as a vulnerable Frogs squad hops into town.
Up Next: Home vs. TCU, 6:00 pm
10. KANSAS — L 59-7 at Iowa State
Let's go ahead and cement this ranking for the remainder of the year. The Jayhawks are not close to being a good team, but the extra time during the bye week should benefit the staff and make up for some time lost in the short offseason.
Up Next: OPEN