Colorado Buffaloes Host Struggling Oklahoma State in Crucial Big 12 Clash

No. 25 Colorado is set to host Oklahoma State on Black Friday in a game that holds significant implications for the Buffaloes’ College Football Playoff hopes. Colorado, currently 8-3 and 6-2 in the Big 12, is looking to bounce back from a 37-21 loss to Kansas last week. The Buffaloes’ defense, which allowed 331 yards rushing and three touchdowns against Kansas, will face an Oklahoma State team that has struggled immensely this season.

Oklahoma State, under Coach Mike Gundy, is having its worst season since 2005, with a record of 3-8 and 0-8 in conference play. The Cowboys are at risk of going winless in conference games for the first time since 1994. Freshman quarterback Maealiuaki Smith is expected to start his second game for Oklahoma State after a promising debut against Texas Tech, where he threw for 316 yards and two touchdowns.

Colorado’s offense, led by quarterback Shedeur Sanders and Heisman hopeful Travis Hunter, is one of the best in the Big 12. Hunter has had an exceptional season with over 80 catches, 1,000 yards, and 12 all-purpose touchdowns, along with nine passes defended, three interceptions, and a game-winning forced fumble. His performance against Oklahoma State could be pivotal in his Heisman bid.

The game will be played at Folsom Field in Boulder, Colorado, and will be broadcast on ABC. The Buffaloes are favored by 16.5 points, and the over/under is set at 65.5 points. Given Oklahoma State’s defensive struggles, allowing an average of 35.5 points and 515.1 yards per game, Colorado is expected to dominate the game.

For Colorado to reach the Big 12 title game, they need to win this game and hope for specific outcomes in other games involving two-loss Big 12 teams. A win against Oklahoma State is crucial for keeping their title hopes alive.