Oklahoma vs Baylor, the winner of this game is definitely in the driver’s seat for first place and a spot in the Big XII championship game. Both Baylor and Oklahoma have issues to resolve. Baylor has struggled on offense and Oklahoma has not played well on defense in the last two games. With these things in mind here is the Oklahoma vs Baylor preview.
Oklahoma vs Baylor Preview
Baylor
In the Bears last two outings they have had trouble scoring points. Baylor was only able to score 17 points against a struggling West Virginia team. The Bears were unable to score a touchdown in regulation against TCU. In both games, the Bears have had problems moving the ball on the ground.
On a positive note, the Baylor defense has played well. The defense held West Virginia to only 14 points. In the last outing against TCU, the Bears defense held the Horned Frogs to three field goals in regulation.
Oklahoma
The Sooners seem to be at a crossroads at this point of the season. The offense has been hot and cold for the last two games. The defense has struggled mightily in those games. This game provides an opportunity for Oklahoma to take control of the Big XII conference.
Offense
The Sooners have been consistent most of the year, but they have been inconsistent in the last two contests. Oklahoma needs to focus more on the running game. This isn’t going to be aided by the loss of Trey Sermon for the rest of the season due to an injury against Iowa State last Saturday night. CeeDee Lamb has been an absolute beast and virtually unstoppable this year. In regards to receivers, what has happened to Grant Calcaterra? Rumors abound that he has a concussion-related injury. When did this occur? Calcaterra hasn’t played since before the Texas contest. Nothing was mentioned prior to just before kickoff, and very little since. Is Calcaterra really injured, or is something else in play here? On the subject of tight ends, why has Austin Stogner not been more involved in the offense?
Defense
What has happened to the aggressive, fly to the ball Oklahoma defense everyone saw the first seven games this season? In the past two games, the defense has allowed 48 and 41 points. They have done a poor job of tackling, and the same effort just isn’t evident.
The defense isn’t helped by the season-ending injury to defensive lineman Kenneth Mann against Iowa State.
The Sooners have still not forced a turn over in five consecutive games. Oklahoma ranks dead last among all FBS teams in the number of turnovers forced. There is absolutely no way Oklahoma should rank last in FBS in any negative category.
In his first year, defensive coordinator Alex Grinch’s defense, he is working with the hand he was dealt. He needs time to get players on campus that fit his scheme and style of play. With that being said, the players need to take responsibility for the inconsistent or outright poor play. The first seven games the defense tackled well. The defense played aggressively, and with effort through those first seven contests. All of this boils down to effort, you don’t suddenly forget how to tackle or give 100% effort. This game is a perfect opportunity for the defense to show they have pride and play with heart.
The Final Word
Both the Sooners and Bears have much to play for. This will be one of the biggest games in Waco, Texas in many years, possibly ever. This battle for Big XII supremacy will be on display for ESPN Gameday and a sell-out crowd. Baylor has an opportunity to secure a quality win to bolster their playoff resume. Oklahoma is in dire need of a victory to stay on pace for a spot in the Big XII championship game and a potential CFB playoff berth.
A lot of questions will be answered this Saturday night in Waco, Texas.
Prediction
Oklahoma 37, Baylor 23
