This week offers the best slate of Big 12 football action so far. The top matchup features undefeated Notre Dame visiting BYU in a top-10 clash. For a potential upset, look at Oklahoma State taking on favored Houston. The Cowboys have the quarterback to shock the Cougars.
Fans have a lot to watch as the conference enters a critical stretch. The schedule brings together ranked teams and teams trying to climb the ladder. Some games will decide who stays in the hunt for a title. Others will just be fun battles between rivals. Here is what matters most for the weekend.
The Best Game of the Week
Notre Dame and BYU meet in the game everyone must see. Both teams sit inside the top 10 of the AP poll. They have not lost a game yet this season. According to Yahoo Sports, this is the biggest challenge Notre Dame has faced all year.
BYU has had some close calls against TCU and Iowa State. This is BYU’s first game against a ranked team this season. Both squads rely on strong defense, which usually means a lower score. The battle will come down to the quarterbacks. Notre Dame’s CJ Carr has more passing touchdowns than Bear Bachmeier.
The Cougars lack other big offensive weapons beyond Bachmeier. This gives the Fighting Irish a clear edge on paper. Even if Notre Dame wins, the game should be entertaining. The defense on both sides will make it a grind.
A Potential Upset in Texas
Oklahoma State and Houston face off in a tricky spot. Houston is favored to win despite Oklahoma State being ranked higher. The Cowboys have a ranked win this season. The Cougars do not, having lost to Texas Tech in Week 3. That loss hurts their standing.
Per Yahoo Sports, Houston is a well-rounded team that can beat anyone. They look strong going into this matchup. However, Oklahoma State has a player who can change the game. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker has thrown for over 1,500 yards in just five games.
Mestemaker makes any game interesting. While Houston is expected to win, the Cowboys have the talent to pull off a surprise. If they win, it would be the second loss of the season for the Cougars. This is the game where the underdog has a real shot.
Other Key Big 12 Matchups
West Virginia and Cincinnati also play a crucial game. The Mountaineers are slightly favored at home. They are trying to end a three-game losing streak.
Both teams like to run the ball. This game may come down to who runs better on the day. Utah takes on Colorado as well. The Utes want to stay undefeated. Colorado is still chasing its first Big 12 win.
Kansas plays Kansas State in a big state rivalry. Texas Tech is heavily favored over Arizona State. Baylor is also favored against TCU. These games add depth to a busy weekend for the conference.
Teams on Bye and What It Means
Three Big 12 teams sit out this weekend. Arizona, Iowa State, and UCF are on their bye. This gives them time to rest and fix problems. Arizona enters the break with a 2-1 conference record. They look solid in the league.
Iowa State and UCF are both 1-2 in Big 12 play. They need a win to get back on track. The bye week might help them reset their season. They will return with a fresh look and new plans.
The rest of the league is busy fighting for wins. The gap between the top teams and the bottom teams is clear. But the upsets are always possible in college football. Fans should keep an eye on Drew Mestemaker and the Cowboys. They are the team to watch for a shocker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which game is the best to watch?
Notre Dame vs. BYU is the top game. Both teams are in the top 10 and undefeated.
Who is favored to win against Oklahoma State?
Houston is favored to win, even though Oklahoma State is ranked higher.
Which teams are on a bye this week?
Arizona, Iowa State, and UCF are the three teams resting this weekend.
What is the record for Arizona this season?
Arizona has a 2-1 record in conference play entering their bye week.