BYU-Oklahoma State football matchups and prediction: Can the Cougars keep the Cowboys reeling?
Courtesy BYU Photo
BYU defenders make a tackle during the Big 12 game against Oklahoma State at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023.Here is Jared Lloyd’s look at the BYU-Oklahoma State matchups, including his prediction for the final score for Friday’s game at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo:
BYU offense vs. Oklahoma State defense
The Cougars have had moments of brilliance and other times where they have struggled to move the ball, but the reality is the Cowboy defense has had a tough time stopping opponents this season. OSU is near the bottom of the nation statistically in yards allowed per game, particularly against the run, so look for BYU’s LJ Martin to have a big day.
Edge: BYU
BYU defense vs. Oklahoma State offense
The Cougars have to make sure Cowboy star running back Ollie Gordon II doesn’t get on track but if they are able to limit his success, Oklahoma State will be in trouble. The Cowboy pass game has had a tough time and BYU’s defense will be up to the challenge.
Edge: BYU
Coaching
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake clearly has his stamp on the program this season and it has turned into a great start. Oklahoma State’s Mike Gundy, however, is a savvy veteran who has had an extra week to attempt to get things turned around. Expect the Cowboys to be well-prepared and play their best game in the last month.
Edge: Even
Intangibles
BYU will be at home in front of another big crowd with a late-night kickoff. The Cougars have more pressure with the Cowboys playing with nothing to lose. BYU has been excellent at forcing turnovers and avoiding penalties, which the Cougars need to keep doing. The weather is supposed to be colder and wetter, which could play a factor.
Edge: BYU
Key Matchup: BYU running backs vs. OSU defensive front
One of the keys to beating the Cowboys in recent weeks is to control the ball on the ground. BYU hasn’t had a running back have a huge game so far this season, but the return of LJ Martin from injury might make that change. If Martin and the other Cougar backs can get the tough yards and break free for a couple of big gainers, it will open up everything else for the BYU offense.
Edge: BYU
Prediction
Oklahoma State will come out and mix things up early, thanks to having their bye week to make some adjustments. The Cowboys may even get out to a lead, but it won’t last that long. BYU will prove to be too consistent and too resilient for Oklahoma State. Look for the Cougars to put together a string of scoring drives in the second and third quarters while getting stops and a turnover to seize control. BYU will have a big lead and cruise to another big win.
BYU 40, Oklahoma State 17
