Big 12 Football Week 2 Breakdown
If your team is in the Big 12, then you had a great first week. Every team in the Big 12 is currently undefeated at 1-0. It all started with Baylor’s big upset over TCU and ended with Texas A&M defeating SMU handily.
8 Oklahoma State vs. Arizona
Oklahoma State quarterback Brandon Weeden threw three interceptions in the Cowboys’ first game. Of course, that was coupled with three touchdowns and 388 yards. But a 1 to 1 TD/INT ration will not get it done for a top ten team. Justin Blackmon came away with 144 yards on eight catches, but did not get into the end zone. Weeden will need to keep the interceptions down this week and Blackmon will have to keep doing his thing. Look for these two to hook up in the end zone at least once against Arizona. Like Oklahoma State, the Wildcats of Arizona like to throw the ball. Nick Foles looked amazing, albeit against Northern Arizona, throwing for 412 yards, five TDs, and no interceptions. This one will be a shootout in Stillwater, Okla.
Predicted Winner: Oklahoma State
24 Missouri vs. 17 Arizona State
Missouri really underwhelmed me in Week 1 against Miami (OH). They only managed to put up 17 points in their win. Missouri quarterback James Franklin was hesitant to throw the deep ball. This could have been the play calling of coach Gary Pinkel, or Franklin’s own doing. If Missouri wants to stay undefeated, Franklin will need to throw for more than his Week 1 total of 129 yards. The Sun Devils looked as good on the field as their helmets did. They were able to move the ball through the air and on the ground last week. Missouri only held Miami (OH) to six points, but the true test will come this week against Arizona State.
Predicted Winner: Arizona State
20 Texas vs. BYU
I’m not quite sold on the Longhorns yet. I expected more than a 3-3 tie after the first quarter against Rice. I did like Gilbert’s willingness to throw the deep pass. BYU might not have the statistics to backup their play, but they played a reputable SEC opponent in Ole Miss. Both teams will show their true colors this weekend, and I foresee an upset in Austin.
Predicted Winner: BYU
Iowa State vs. Iowa
Iowa State just barely skirted by Northern Iowa last week. There isn’t much to like about this team so far. Iowa State lacks a real identity. Iowa has really owned this rivalry over the years and the reign will continue.
Predicted Winner: Iowa
Kansas vs. Northern Illinois
Kansas rushed for over 300 yards in Week 1. Look for this ground game to keep on rollin’ against NIU. The Huskies are capable of putting up points, however. They hung 49 on Army, but still gave up over 300 yards on the ground. This will play into Kansas’ favor.
Predicted Winner: Kansas
