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Oklahoma State at Kansas prediction and game preview. Projecting who wins the game between the Cowboys and Jayhawks.

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Oklahoma State vs. Kansas Game Preview

When: Saturday, October 22 – 12:00 p.m. ET
Where: Memorial Stadium, Lawrence, KS
Broadcast: FS1

Oklahoma State returns to action after sitting out Week 7 on a bye. The first half of the year was a mixed bag for the 4-2 Cowboys, who would have been 5-1 if not for a blown call against Central Michigan. Mike Gundy’s kids won back-to-back games against Texas and Iowa State prior to the break, and must keep winning to remain in contention in the Big 12 race. Next up is Kansas, which is looking to snap a 19-game losing streak versus FBS opponents. The Jayhawks almost shocked TCU two weeks ago, but then bowed to Baylor, 49-7, this past Saturday.

What To Know About Oklahoma State

The Cowboys were an incomplete team during the first half of the year—the offense can outgun just about anyone, but the defense left them vulnerable against the likes of Central Michigan, Baylor and Iowa State. Glenn Spencer’s D isn’t evolving overnight, so Mike Gundy will continue leaning on an attack norming more than 40 points per game. Mason Rudolph to the James Washington-led receiving corps is dynamic, but the offense is also getting help from running back Justice Hill, who’s rushed for more than 100 yards in two of the last three games.

What to Know About Kansas

Head coach David Beaty has a long way to go in Lawrence, as evidenced by lopsided losses to the likes of Ohio and Memphis. The D is soft and the offense lacks consistency and efficiency. At its best, the one-point loss to the Horned Frogs, quarterback Ryan Willis fed receivers Steven Sims, Shakiem Barbel and LaQuivonte Gonzalez liberally, and the defense picked off Kenny Hill three times. A similar effort will be needed Saturday for Kansas to be in this game in the final quarter.

Advantages

Offense: Oklahoma State. The Cowboys are explosive and diverse, especially now that Justice Hill is complementing the passing of Rudolph.

Defense: Oklahoma State. The edge here is slight for the visitors, and only if star safety Jordan Sterns returns from his injury.

Special Teams: Oklahoma State. Arguably Okie State’s most complete all-around unit, led by punter Zach Sinor and placekicker Ben Grogan.

Coaching: Oklahoma State. Beaty is still maturing as a head coach, while Gundy is one of the best in the Big 12.

Intangibles: Oklahoma State. Following a much-needed week off, the Pokes are rested and recharged, having taken stock of what needs to improve in October and November.

Matchup To Watch

Willis vs. the Oklahoma State secondary

You want to keep the crowd in this game, Jayhawks? You’ll need a big day from Willis. He’s capable, plus he’s surrounded by an underrated collection of receivers, and will be facing a Cowboy defensive backfield that’s been gashed by all five FBS opponents this season.

Oklahoma State at Kansas Betting Odds

Spread: Oklahoma State -24.5
Over/Under: No over/under (as of post)

Oklahoma State at Kansas Prediction

A break in the action came at a good time for the Cowboys, and it’ll show this week in Lawrence. A healthier Oklahoma State team will perform with more energy, particularly on offense. Sure, Kansas will pop a few big plays over the top against the porous Cowboy defensive backfield. But it won’t be nearly enough to offset a monster day from Washington on the outside or a 100-yard effort from Hill on the ground.

Oklahoma State at Kansas Score Prediction: Oklahoma State 42, Kansas 21

MORE: No. 1-128 College Football Rankings – Week 8