The upcoming game between No. 20 Oklahoma State and No. 23 Kansas State on Saturday at 12 p.m. ET is anticipated to be a crucial match that could impact both teams’ standings in the Big 12 and their journey to the conference title game. Oklahoma State is seeking redemption after a tough loss to Utah, while Kansas State aims to bounce back from a disappointing performance against BYU. The Cowboys hold a series lead of 43-27 against the Wildcats, but past matchups have shown that both teams are capable of surprising outcomes.
One key matchup to watch in this game is between Kansas State QB Avery Johnson and the Oklahoma State defense, which struggled against Utah last week, giving up 456 yards. Johnson had a challenging game against BYU, throwing for only 130 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions. His performance will be crucial in determining Kansas State’s offensive success against a resilient Oklahoma State defense.
Keep an eye on Oklahoma State’s RB Ollie Gordon II, who entered the season with Heisman Trophy aspirations but was contained to just 42 yards by Utah. For Kansas State, RBs D.J. Giddens and Dylan Edwards have been consistent performers, with Giddens rushing for 93 yards against BYU and Edwards adding 41 yards on limited carries.
In terms of historical matchups, the Cowboys have emerged victorious in four of the last five games against the Wildcats. Oklahoma State’s WR Brennan Presley is closing in on a school record with 252 career catches, needing just two more to surpass Justin Blackmon for second place. The Cowboys’ defense has been strong, forcing turnovers and not allowing opponents to score on opening drives this season.
On the Kansas State side, their recent 29-point loss to BYU was their largest defeat since 2020. Kansas State boasts the most wins in the Big 12 with 139, followed closely by Oklahoma State with 132 victories. The upcoming game between these two competitive teams is poised to have significant implications for their standings in the conference and their pursuit of the Big 12 title.