Big 12 Championship Preview.
#11 TCU (10-2) vs #3 Oklahoma (11-1)
Saturday; 12:30 / FOX
Oklahoma -7
The Big 12 Championship Game was brought back because the thinking was the Big 12 teams were at a disadvantage because of the conference not having a title game. If they would have waited until next year to bring back this title game, Oklahoma would have safely sewn up a playoff spot. The Sooners will have to earn it one more time as they attempt to defeat a tough TCU squad for the second time this year. The last Big 12 title game was back in 2010 when Oklahoma beat Nebraska. The great realignment at that time reduced the Big 12's members from 12 to 10 and a single division.
Both of these teams have brought an attitude to the field from time to time. Everyone is aware of the exploits of Oklahoma quarterback, Baker Mayfield. TCU defensive lineman; Mat Boesen, was ejected from the Frogs 38-20 loss to the Sooners back on November 11 for kicking a Sooner player. TCU had a 'holy' brawl last week with Baylor which resulted in safety; Nick Orr to be suspended for the first half of this game. Oklahoma's offensive lineman; Dru Samia, was ejected last week for punching a West Virginia player during the Sooners 59-31 win. So, this could be a chippy afternoon at Jerry's World.
For the Sooners, a win and they're safely in. They are ranked third in the committee's poll. Mayfield should leave New York next week with Heisman in hand and for good reason. He has gone over 4000 yards passing with 37 touchdowns and only five interceptions. Mayfield had 333 passing yards against TCU on November 11. The running game is critical for the high flying Oklahoma offense and its in good hands and legs with the emergence of Rodney Anderson. He torched the Frog defense for 151 rushing yards and 139 receiving yards and four touchdowns. Anderson producing on the ground will only open up the Mayfield aerial circus even further.
It's no secret that a Gary Patterson led team possesses a strong defense and this year is no exception. They lead the Big 12 in sacks and total defense. However, they had difficulty against the top offenses in this league. West Virginia had over 500 yards and Oklahoma State had 499 yards. Oklahoma racked up 533 yards in their last meeting.
TCU quarterback; Kenny Hill, has had a rollercoaster year. He started off well in the first quarter against Oklahoma but then tailed off. He has to be climbing to the peak of the coaster Saturday. The Frog offense has to continue to show why they lead the conference in time of possession and third down conversions. Their running game could have issues with the loss of Darius Anderson. Kyle Hicks and Sewo Olonila have to stand out.
They say its very difficult to beat the same team twice in one season. The Frogs can only play spoiler since they have to jump over too many teams to get a playoff spot. Do the Frogs have enough firepower to keep up with the Sooners? I say no.
Oklahoma 45-34
