Around the Big 12: Week 12

Things get chippy as No. 4 Oklahoma stomps Kansas, 41-3.

From the opening coin toss, Baker Mayfield and the Jayhawks did not get along. The real story of this game is the “appropriateness” of Mayfield’s antics while chirping with the Jayhawks. You can watch below and see if another apology from the Heisman hopeful was warranted. Oh, right, there was football played in Lawrence, mainly by the Sooners. Baker threw 3 touchdown passes, Rodney Anderson had over 100 yards from scrimmage with a TD, and Mike Stoops’ crew decided to play defense. The Kansas offense only managed 155 yards and gave it back to Oklahoma twice.

Kansas State kills No. 13 Oklahoma State’s Big 12 title hopes with upset in Stillwater, 45-40

You may as well kiss that “certain” Bedlam rematch goodbye. Kansas State’s offense ran roughshod over the Cowboys to the tune of 217 rushing yards. Skylar Thompson only completed 10 passes, but 3 of those went for touchdowns to Byron Pringle. The final offensive numbers for Oklahoma State are impressive: 510 yards, 30 first downs, and 5 touchdowns. But, the Wildcats were able to hold down the Cowboys’ high octane attack while building their lead and also forced Mason Rudolph into 2 interceptions. Bill Snyder just continues to work his magic at Kansas State, who came into Stillwater as 19.5 point underdogs.

Iowa State bounces back against Baylor, 23-13

For the first time in 17 seasons, Iowa State will have a winning record in conference play. The Cyclones leaned mainly on the their defense, which forced 2 Baylor turnovers. The offense was solid as well as redshirt freshman Zeb Noland didn’t turn the ball over and threw 2 touchdown passes. Allen Lazard was the recipient of one of those passes, making him the Iowa State career receiving leader. David Montgomery was again a force on the ground, rushing for 144 yards on the day. For Baylor’s part, they were competitive during this match up. The 2 turnovers were both inside the red zone. It’s mistakes like those that killed the young Bears hope of winning a second game the season.

Texas earns bowl eligibility with win over West Virginia, 28-14

Sam Ehlinger returning to action was just what the Longhorns needed. He tossed 2 touchdowns and led a rushing attack that amassed 233 yards. On the other sideline, Will Grier was well on his way to a big day against the Texas defense. But, in an attempt to dive for the goal line, Grier suffered a gruesome injury to a finger on his throwing hand during the first quarter. The injury ended his day, and the Mountaineers never seemed to recover the momentum. The victory ensures that the Longhorns will go bowling this holiday season.