In a notable early-season clash between Oklahoma State and Utah, the game drew significant national interest, being regarded as a potential preview for the Big 12 championship contest. Utah, as a new addition to the league, was anticipated to perform well, having been chosen as the conference favorite in the preseason media poll. Meanwhile, Oklahoma State, led by standout running back Ollie Gordon II, was projected to finish in third place.
Utah, ranked No. 12 at the time, managed to establish a 19-point advantage and secured a close 22-19 victory over the 14th-ranked Cowboys. This win was celebrated as a major success for the Utes under head coach Kyle Whittingham. However, both teams have since struggled and have not recorded a win in their following games.
They are not alone in this disappointing trend; Kansas and Arizona, teams that were also projected to finish among the top five in the conference, find themselves at the bottom of the standings alongside Utah and Oklahoma State in the crowded 16-team league.
Currently, Utah has faced a challenging stretch, losing four consecutive games by a total margin of just 30 points. This week, things will not get any easier as they prepare to host the No. 9 ranked BYU, who remains undefeated at 8-0.
On the other hand, Oklahoma State sits in last place, heading into a game against TCU. The Cowboys, with a record of 3-6 and an alarming six-game losing streak, are in desperate need of victories to ensure they avoid a losing season. Future contests against Texas Tech and improving Colorado pose additional challenges.
Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy has addressed concerns regarding the team’s performance and has expressed frustration towards the criticism directed at his players. He stressed the importance of trust from the fans, explaining that the negativity often stems from those who are struggling to deal with their own issues.
The team has struggled with significant injuries, particularly affecting defensive lineman Collin Oliver. The offensive line’s performance has also declined, limiting Gordon’s effectiveness this season, despite him having standout moments including multiple touchdowns against notable opponents. Gundy remains confident about his team’s capability, relying on his extensive experience and previous successes.
In Kansas, expectations were high at the start of the season, but the Jayhawks have stumbled, losing five of their first six games and blowing multiple leads, including a heartbreaking late-game loss to Kansas State. They now sit at 2-6, with tough matchups ahead against ranked opponents.
Quarterback Jalon Daniels has struggled significantly, especially with turnovers, while the offense has faced setbacks due to the departure of a key coordinator. The team’s performance comes at an inopportune moment as renovations to the stadium coincide with disappointing results, further alienating a frustrated fan base.
Arizona, entering its first season with coach Brent Brennan, also began with high hopes, ranking No. 21 in the AP Poll. However, the Wildcats’ prospects have dimmed following a five-game losing streak.
Defensively, Arizona has regressed, particularly following the season-ending injury to linebacker Jacob Manu. The team has faltered, allowing an alarming number of points and yards per game, necessitating improvements in their defensive strategy moving forward.
Quarterback Noah Fifita’s performance has been mixed, showing early promise last season but now grappling with turnovers this year. Despite strong performances from receiver Tetairoa McMillan, the Wildcats lack consistent offensive support.
Brennan has emphasized the necessity of unity within the team during this difficult phase, urging players and coaches to support one another amidst adversity. He acknowledges the struggles post-defeats but remains hopeful for a collaborative effort to find success as the season continues.