Oct 18, 2014; Norman, OK, USA; Kansas State Wildcats wide receiver Curry Sexton (14) is tackled by Oklahoma Sooners cornerback Zack Sanchez (15) during the game at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
October 17: Sooners Travel To The Little Apple
Why OU Might Win
Last season’s game was a 31-30 Kansas State victory over the Sooners in Norman. At first glance, Trevor Knight did not have a terrible statistical game: he threw for over 300 yards on 28 for 36 passing and tossed three touchdowns. But one of his two interceptions, an ill-advised pass near the end zone, was returned for a touchdown. And OU kicker Michael Hunnicutt, usually reliable and rock-solid, missed a field goal that could have won the game.
This upcoming season’s game is in Manhattan, where it can be quite tough to play. And, Bill Snyder’s coaching acumen and ability to get the most out of his players is second to none. That said, OU will come to Manhattan with revenge in mind, and Bill Snyder will be coaching a team lacking quarterback Jake Waters and receiver Tyler Lockett, arguably the two best offensive playes for the Wildcats last year. Advantage OU.
While the game will be close, at the end of the day the Sooners will return to Norman with a victory, paced by a mistake-free offense and an opportunistic defense.
Why OU Might Lose
Depending on what happens at the Cotton Bowl the prior week, the Sooners’ state of mind when they travel to Manhattan might have a lot of bearing on this game. And, there is a possibility that the offensive miscues that plagued the Sooners in the 2014 game rear their ugly heads again. If that happens, there is no reason to believe that an opportunistic, well-coached Bill Snyder team can’t get motivation from an enthusiastic home crowd and upset yet another mistake-prone Sooner squad.
Interesting Fact
Savvy college football fans recognize the magnitude of what Bill Snyder has accomplished at Kansas State. Here’s a quick statistical refresher: Snyder’s winning percentage at Kansas State is 0.656 (187 wins, 94 losses). All other Wildcat coaches combined could only manage a 0.393 winning percentage (257 wins, 483 losses). Snyder’s accomplishments at this formerly downtrodden program are nothing short of miraculous, and the numbers tell the tale.
Next: October 24th: The Red Raiders Invade Norman