Oklahoma Breaks Baylor’s Run for Perfection

The Oklahoma Sooners pulled off the upset in Waco, TX to change the look in the Big 12 and in the playoff contention.  The Sooners defeated the Bears 44-34 Saturday night to break the FBS-best 20 home game win streak.  The last time Baylor lost at home was October 13, 2012, against TCU.

The loss for the Bears almost certainly destroys the team’s college play off hopes.  To be considered for the playoffs, Baylor needs to win the remaining games in their season, which is the toughest part of their schedule.

The Bears travel to face the undefeated Oklahoma State Cowboys then travel to TCU before finishing the season with Texas at home. Even if the Bears pull out this difficult task, it will not solidify a playoff spot.

Oklahoma has been a force to reckon with since its loss to Texas, as the Sooners have won the past five games.  With the winning streak, the Sooners have obtained more control of their destiny in the Big 12.  The team’s overall record is 9-1 and 6-1 in conference play putting them in second place right behind Oklahoma State.

Both Baylor and Oklahoma’s offenses were explosive as it was a high scoring game.  Sooners quarterback Baker Mayfield went 24-34 for 270 yards, three touchdowns and one interception.  Mayfield also ran for 76 yards with one touchdown.

Jarrett Stidham, the true freshman quarterback for Baylor, went 16-27 for 257 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions.  Stidham did not have a terrible outing, especially with the little experience he had, but it was not crisp enough to take on the Sooner defense.

The running game ended up being the major factor in the game.  Oklahoma out ran Baylor by 90 yards.  Baylor’s Devin Chafin ran for only 49 yards but had three touchdowns.  Sooner running back Samaje Perine ran for 166 yards with two touchdowns.

After the upset, Baylor dropped to the 10th spot in the AP Top 25 while Oklahoma jumps up by five to the seventh rank.  As Baylor travels to Oklahoma State, Oklahoma hosts TCU this Saturday.