The Oklahoma State Cowboys are set to face off against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in a highly anticipated matchup in the Big 12 Conference. This game has significant implications for both teams, as they look to position themselves for a strong finish in the conference standings. In this article, we'll break down five key matchups that will be crucial in determining the outcome of this game.
Matchup 1: Oklahoma State's Running Game vs. Texas Tech's Defensive Line
The Oklahoma State running game, led by Chuba Hubbard, has been one of the most potent in the Big 12 this season. Hubbard, a preseason All-American, has rushed for over 1,000 yards and 13 touchdowns, and will look to continue his dominance against a Texas Tech defensive line that has struggled to stop the run.
The Red Raiders' defensive line, led by tackle Broderick Washington, has allowed an average of 193 rushing yards per game, which ranks 9th in the Big 12. If Oklahoma State can establish a strong running game, it could open up play-action opportunities for quarterback Spencer Sanders and allow the Cowboys to control the tempo of the game.
Key Stat: Chuba Hubbard's rushing yards per game (123.8)
Matchup 2: Texas Tech's Receivers vs. Oklahoma State's Secondary
The Texas Tech receiving corps, led by TJ Vasher and Dalton Rigdon, has been one of the most explosive in the Big 12 this season. Vasher, a 6'6" junior, has hauled in 42 receptions for 579 yards and 6 touchdowns, while Rigdon has added 34 receptions for 451 yards and 3 touchdowns.
The Oklahoma State secondary, led by cornerback A.J. Green, has allowed an average of 243 passing yards per game, which ranks 7th in the Big 12. If the Cowboys can contain Vasher and Rigdon, it could limit the Red Raiders' ability to stretch the field and create big plays.
Key Stat: TJ Vasher's receiving yards per game (72.4)
Matchup 3: Oklahoma State's Quarterback Spencer Sanders vs. Texas Tech's Pass Rush
Spencer Sanders, the Oklahoma State quarterback, has been a bright spot for the Cowboys this season, throwing for over 1,500 yards and 13 touchdowns. However, Sanders has also been sacked 16 times, which is 3rd-most in the Big 12.
The Texas Tech pass rush, led by linebacker Jordyn Brooks, has been one of the most aggressive in the conference, with 25 sacks on the season. If the Red Raiders can get pressure on Sanders, it could limit his ability to extend plays and create big throws.
Key Stat: Spencer Sanders' sack percentage (7.4%)
Matchup 4: Texas Tech's Running Game vs. Oklahoma State's Linebackers
The Texas Tech running game, led by SaRodorick Thompson, has been a key component of the Red Raiders' offense this season. Thompson, a freshman, has rushed for over 500 yards and 6 touchdowns, and will look to continue his success against an Oklahoma State linebacker corps that has been vulnerable to the run.
The Cowboys' linebackers, led by Amen Ogbongbemiga, have allowed an average of 163 rushing yards per game, which ranks 8th in the Big 12. If Texas Tech can establish a strong running game, it could open up play-action opportunities for quarterback Jett Duffey and allow the Red Raiders to control the tempo of the game.
Key Stat: SaRodorick Thompson's rushing yards per game (57.1)
Matchup 5: Oklahoma State's Special Teams vs. Texas Tech's Special Teams
The Oklahoma State special teams unit, led by kicker Matt Ammendola, has been one of the most consistent in the Big 12 this season. Ammendola, a senior, has made 14 of 17 field goal attempts, including a 53-yarder against Kansas State.
The Texas Tech special teams unit, led by kicker Trey Wolff, has been inconsistent this season, making just 10 of 16 field goal attempts. If the Red Raiders can't find a way to contain Ammendola and the Cowboys' special teams unit, it could give Oklahoma State a significant advantage in the field position battle.
Key Stat: Matt Ammendola's field goal percentage (82.4%)
Gallery of Oklahoma State vs Texas Tech
FAQ Section
What is the current record between Oklahoma State and Texas Tech?
+Oklahoma State leads the all-time series 23-21.
Who is the leading rusher in the Big 12 Conference this season?
+Chuba Hubbard, Oklahoma State running back, with 1,040 rushing yards.
What is the average points per game for Oklahoma State this season?
+Oklahoma State is averaging 32.5 points per game this season.
We hope you enjoyed this in-depth analysis of the key matchups between Oklahoma State and Texas Tech. Be sure to share your thoughts on the game in the comments section below!