Oklahoma State: Five things to watch at Bedlam
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5
Published: November 28, 2008
1. Sackin’ Sam
Anything Oklahoma State can do to disrupt the Oklahoma offense will be crucial. OU ranks seventh nationally with 11 sacks allowed. OSU ranks 102nd in the country having recorded only 13 sacks. So putting OU quarterback Sam Bradford on his back will be difficult, but it would also pay dividends.
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2. Make a stop
Texas Tech fumbled twice when it beat Oklahoma State 56-20 three weeks ago — both unforced errors. In between the two fumbles, Texas Tech scored touchdowns on seven straight possessions. If the Cowboys want to end OU’s Big 12 and national title hopes, they better make some defensive stops, rather than waiting for OU to screw things up itself.3. TDs not FGs
Of the 20 teams in the country averaging at least 35 points per game, only Penn State has kicked more red-zone field goals than OSU. Field goals win games in the Big 10, but not the Big 12 South. The Cowboys sputtered inside the 10 yard line at Colorado in their last game, and they must avoid such struggles.4. Not just Dez
OSU tight end Brandon Pettigrew is averaging six catches over the last four games and that’s the type of production the Cowboys will need from him in Bedlam. OSU has to find a way to keep multiple receivers involved, because it will help open up the run game and give star wideout Dez Bryant an opportunity for some one-on-one coverage.5. Happy returns
Oklahoma is among the worst teams in the country in kickoff return coverage and one of only three teams in the nation to allow three kickoff return TDs. OSU ranks 15th nationally in yards per return with one touchdown. Special teams plays can turn a game just like offense or defense, and the Pokes will take big plays anywhere they can get them. By Scott Wright
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I have been following bedlam for almost 40 years. I will know how this one will play out in the first 10 minutes none of them is listed above. OSU wins the games that they control OU's running game, that is defensive line play. We have lost 5 in a row because we don't have a Kevin Williams lineman. Secondly, OSU wins going verticle. Play action and hitting OU deep has worked on OU since I have been watching them. The ability of the offensive line to protect and push the defense out for at least 100 yards rushing is the key. If you look at all the great games this has been the formula for victory against OU. OU is so prideful that they play to stuff every play which leaves them vulnerable for big runs and verticle passing game. Sorry , but you show your lack of knowledge of sports again.