GAME TIME:
11:00:00 AM, September 28, 2024

SPORT/LEAGUE:
NCAA Football

TEAMS:
OSU
KSU

PROP BET:
KSU -4 (-110)

UNIT: 1.0

ANALYSIS:

Kansas State Wildcats vs. Oklahoma State Cowboys: Betting Preview and Analysis

Pick: Kansas State - Points

Why Kansas State Wins

In Big 12 play this season, home-field advantage has been a decisive factor. So far, home teams in conference matchups are 7-2 straight up (and arguably should be 8-1). Kansas State has thrived at home, winning 9 of its last 10 games in Manhattan, and they need a victory here to avoid falling to 0-2 in Big 12 play.

Key Matchup Edge: Run Defense

The biggest difference between these two teams is run defense. Kansas State is allowing just 83.3 rushing yards per game, while Oklahoma State is giving up 180.3 yards per game on the ground. This mismatch should allow the Wildcats to control the tempo and keep Oklahoma State’s offense off the field. Look for Kansas State to exploit this weakness with a balanced offensive attack.

Oklahoma State’s Offensive Woes

• Quarterback Concerns: The Cowboys’ quarterback situation is a mess. Seventh-year senior Alan Bowman has been ineffective, and his backup, Garret Rangel, was even worse in last week’s loss to Utah. Bowman is set to start again, but his struggles give Kansas State’s defense a clear advantage.

• Ollie Gordon’s Disappointing Start: Oklahoma State’s top returning back, Ollie Gordon, was expected to be a game-changer, but he’s been a non-factor against tougher competition. He’s failed to make an impact since the opener against an FCS opponent, putting more pressure on the shaky quarterback play.

Kansas State’s Edge at Quarterback

While Avery Johnson struggled in last week’s loss to BYU, he still represents an upgrade at quarterback compared to what Oklahoma State has been trotting out. Johnson had been 5-0 as a starter before the setback and should bounce back against a vulnerable Cowboys defense.

Final Score Prediction: Kansas State 30, Oklahoma State 22

With a stout run defense and a more stable quarterback situation, Kansas State should take care of business at home and secure an important conference win. Oklahoma State’s road woes continue, as they’ve gone 2-6 in their last 8 Big 12 road games.

Play Kansas State -4 Points as they rebound and solidify their place in the Big 12 race.

Results

Pick Made 8:30:00 AM, September 28, 2024