3 - 2 - 1 KICK OFF
Here is what to look for when No. 23 Oklahoma State hosts Kansas at 11 a.m. Saturday at Boone Pickens Stadium:
3 players to watch
Israel Antwine:
The Millwood product has shown great improvement the past few games, giving the defensive front a big boost. He'll be even more important on the interior against a Kansas offense that features speedster Pooka Williams.
Kolby Harvell-Peel: The Cowboys' star safety has totaled three turnovers and eight pass break-ups in the past two games. He's finding ways to the football more and more.
Chuba Hubbard:
The Canadian star's historical season might only get better against a Jayhawks defense that has failed to slow down the run game the entire season. Hubbard might not carry the football much, but that could be due to some long runs.
2 big questions
Can the Jayhawks slow down
Hubbard?
Kansas has allowed 235.3 rushing yards per game this season. Hubbard averages 178.2 and he's had two games with more than 235 yards. The math does not favor the Jayhawks' defense. On paper, Hubbard is primed for a big day.
Can OSU's defense continue to grow?
The Cowboys' defense led the way against Iowa State and TCU, especially late in the game. Kansas' offense will present a challenge with Williams and quarterback Carter Stanley. They can make big plays and put up big points. It's another test for the Cowboys.
1 wild prediction
The Cowboys get a special teams touchdown.
It hasn't happened this season, but there is no better time. Braydon Johnson is returning kicks and his speed is very dangerous, opening up the possibility that he could break free. Even Dillon Stoner has been more aggressive on punt returns. It's bound to happen at some point.