Kansas State (0-1, 0-0 Big 12) at No. 3 Oklahoma (1-0, 0-0), Saturday at 11 a.m. (TV: FOX Radio: 740 The Fan & 107.3 FM).
Line: Oklahoma by 28.
Series record: Oklahoma leads 76-20-4.
WHAT’S AT STAKE?
Oklahoma nearly had its College Football Playoff hopes derailed with an upset loss to Kansas State last year. A loss this year would again put the Sooners on the edge of elimination. Kansas State is at risk of a tailspin after opening the season with a loss to Arkansas State. Oklahoma quarterback Spencer Rattler, a redshirt freshman who is getting some early Heisman Trophy buzz, can build on a strong performance against Missouri State.
KEY MATCHUP
Rattler vs. Kansas State’s defensive line. Rattler looked dynamic against Missouri State, but he wasn’t pressured. Kansas State has a solid defensive front, led by defensive end Wyatt Hubert, a preseason All-Big 12 selection. Hubert led the Wildcats last season with 12.5 tackles for loss and 7.0 sacks.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Kansas State: RB Deuce Vaughn. He led the Wildcats with 47 yards rushing and caught a pass for 24 yards against Arkansas State. He became the rst true freshman in school history to score a touchdown in a season opener. The 5-foot-5, 168-pounder plays behind Harry Trotter, but it appears Kansas State is committed to working him into the offense.
Oklahoma: WR Charleston Rambo. He caught two touchdown passes from Rattler in the opener and nearly pulled in a third. Kansas State surrendered 330 yards passing against Arkansas State.
FACTS & FIGURES
Kansas State ended Oklahoma’s 22-game road winning streak last season. … Oklahoma leads the nation in total defense and scoring defense. … Rattler leads the nation in passing efficiency. … Oklahoma freshman running back Seth McGowan had 98 yards and two touchdowns from scrimmage in his debut. … Kansas State nickelback Will Jones blocked a punt and intercepted a pass against Arkansas State in his first career start.
*Courtesy Associated Press
