Big 12 Football: Predicting the outcome of each Week 10 game
While the Big 12 title race is basically down to just three teams, the conference is still due for chaos that can shake up the top of the standings.
Texas had found themselves with every opportunity to be atop the Big 12, but squandered any chance of getting there after losing three consecutive games while having a double-digit lead in each. At this point, schools not from Oklahoma or not named Baylor, are all playing to earn a spot in a bowl game and for pride.
The fight for the top couple spots is certainly heating up, and now schools such as TCU, West Virginia, and even Texas are looking to spoil the chances of everyone in their path.
The Longhorns likely need a win most of all to stop their downward spiral, but them playing against an angry Iowa State team, who is fresh off a loss to West Virginia, does not help their chances at all.
With that being said, it is time for my weekly Big 12 predictions. Heading into this week, I hold an overall record of 30-16. Let’s see if I can do better in Week 10.
Kansas vs. Kansas State
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This game could actually be a lot more interesting than people are willing to admit, as the two Kansas schools will face off for bragging rights.
Kansas State has the clear advantage in this game, and for the past decade as they have won the last 12 matchups. Unless Jason Bean plays the game of his life, and everything falls the way of the Jayhawks, Kansas State will likely make it 13 straight. We have seen Kansas look very overmatched in Big 12 play, and even in the game against Oklahoma they still found way to Kansas themselves out of the win.
Prediction: Kansas State 35, Kansas 12
West Virginia vs. #11 Oklahoma State
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This is where the chaos has the best chance of occurring as West Virginia, for some reason, can only play well against ranked or teams that are better than them. Oklahoma State is still the most fragile looking top-15 team in the nation.
This game will come down to Jaylen Warren, and if he is contained, the Oklahoma State passing game is not good enough to win a game by themselves. If Jarret Doege and Leddie Brown can both have a game like they did against Iowa State, this may be another upset win for the Mountaineers. I have constantly bet against the Cowboys, and although I did call the Iowa State upset, they have proven me wrong every other time. That is still not stopping me from calling for the upset. I am not confident enough in the Cowboys.
Prediction: West Virginia 35, Oklahoma State 31
TCU vs. #12 Baylor
Stephen Spillman-USA TODAY Sports
This game can either go one of two ways, Baylor handles business because they are a legit contender, or Gary Patterson being fired inspires this TCU team and they pull off the upset.
I do not think the latter will be the case, as TCU has one of the worst rush defenses in the nation, and Baylor lives off running the ball. This Baylor defense also showed no issue stopping Bijan Robinson, so I don’t think it will be the easiest of days for Zach Evans.
Prediction: Baylor 30, TCU 17
Iowa State vs. Texas
Stephen Spillman-USA TODAY Sports
Texas has been an absolute disaster these past three weeks, and Iowa State has continued to disappoint.
In the battle of disappointments, Iowa State matches up better against Texas than Texas does against them. They have a good defense that can slow down Bijan Robinson, which puts the ball in the hands of Casey Thompson and the receivers who can’t catch. Iowa State also has a great running back of their own in Breece Hall that will likely have a field day against Texas. If at any point Texas is up by double-digits, Iowa State should feel great about their chances. I think Texas will figure out their woes, but not this week.
Prediction: Iowa State 38, Texas 31
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