Oklahoma State football makes BCS case in 44-10 win over Oklahoma

But they electrified a crowd that later tore down both goal posts in celebration. They signaled that the rout was on. They were the standout plays that helped OSU to cruise to its first outright conference championship and first victory over the rival Sooners since 2002.

And Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy said they helped make a final statement that the Cowboys deserve to play in the national title game.

“After what they accomplished tonight and the way they did it against the No. 10 team in the country, I don't think there's any question they deserve an opportunity to play for it all,” Gundy said.

At worst, OSU has earned a trip to the Fiesta Bowl as the Big 12 champions. But the Cowboys will find out Sunday night if their dominance of the Sooners sways enough voters to boost them past Alabama.

The Cowboys forced five turnovers, but Blatnick's scoop and scamper in the second quarter turned the momentum for good and Richetti's recovery in the added style points needed when fighting the No. 2 spot in the BCS standings.

On third-and-six from the OSU 19, Sooner quarterback Landry Jones rolled to his right and plowed by Alex Elkins. The ball popped free, and Blatnick rumbled down the sideline until he was caught by OU's Trent Ratterree at the one-yard line. On the next play, Joseph Randle took the ball into the end zone to give the Cowboys a 17-0 lead.