Oklahoma State, Kansas State survive upset bids as high Huge 12 contenders shake off struggles in Week 2
Oklahoma State was utterly outplayed by Arkansas in a weird nonconference efficiency, trailing 21-7 at halftime and solely scoring on a defensive landing. The Cowboys had been outgained 648 to 385 yards and mustered simply 1.9 yards per carry. Star working again Ollie Gordon II had solely 37 yards speeding as first-year quarterback Taylen Inexperienced completed with almost 500 yards of complete offense for Arkansas.
Nevertheless, just a few actually weird swings helped Oklahoma State come away with an unlikely victory. The pick-six helped give the Cowboys some life within the first half regardless of ending with fewer than 100 offensive yards. A fumbled punt became an Oklahoma State landing to tie the sport. A missed discipline purpose meant Arkansas was too afraid to take factors late within the recreation, establishing a go-ahead landing for Oklahoma State.
Kansas State wanted each little bit of magic to outlive an upset try from Tulane. The Wildcats took a 20-10 deficit into halftime and star quarterback Avery Johnson was completely outplayed by Tulane freshman Darian Mensah. The deciding play got here halfway by the fourth quarter as Mensah made a crucial mistake, working backwards after getting pressured and in the end fumbling. Kansas State’s Austin Romaine picked it up and took the ball 60 yards for a scoop-and-score.
Mensah was sensational in his second profession begin, clearing 342 yards and two touchdowns. He had what seemed to be a game-tying landing go with seconds remaining, however Tulane was referred to as for a controversial offensive go interference. Performs later, he threw an interception whereas making an attempt to make a play, icing the sport for Kansas State.
Oklahoma State and Kansas State had been picked No. 2 and three within the preseason Huge 12 media ballot, respectively, and are universally thought of among the many high contenders within the convention. Within the expanded Faculty Soccer Playoff, constructing a resume and credibility takes on even greater a precedence for conferences.
Two of the highest three groups within the Huge 12 preseason rankings dropping can be a large stake within the coronary heart of the convention because it tries to jockey for postseason positioning. Although the video games had been ugly, going 1-0 in these matchups signifies that the early struggles ought to largely be forgotten when choice Sunday comes. Residing to combat one other day issues greater than ever.