WHAT TO KNOW

What’s at stake

With Oklahoma’s ascent to No. 3 in the CFP, the Sooners are conference champions and looking like a safe bet to reach the playoff with a win. Oklahoma State can still win its second conference title in five years with a victory. And of course, there’s state pride.

Key matchup

Oklahoma running back Samaje Perine vs. Oklahoma State’s run defense. Oklahoma State won 38-35 in overtime last year, but Oklahoma was in control before Perine was knocked out of the game with a sprained left ankle in the third quarter. Before that, he ran for 151 yards and two touchdowns, and the Sooners led 28-14. This year, the Sooners have the explosive Joe Mixon in place if something happens to Perine, leaving the Cowboys no better off. Oklahoma ranks 19th nationally in rushing offense; Oklahoma State is 70th in rushing defense.

Players to watch

Oklahoma: QB Baker Mayfield. The Heisman hopeful had a concussion last Saturday against TCU and sat out the second half. He passed concussion protocol on Sunday, and he is expected to play barring setbacks. He’ll face a front led by DE Emmanuel Ogbah that ranks among the best in the Big 12 at pressuring quarterbacks.

Oklahoma State: QB Mason Rudolph. He got his first career win last year against the Sooners as a true freshman. He has been dynamic this season, passing for 3,591 yards with 21 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He will face his toughest challenge yet — Oklahoma’ defense leads the Big 12 in most categories, including interceptions and sacks.

Facts & figures

Oklahoma State rushed for eight yards in last week’s loss to Baylor. ... Perine needs 50 rushing yards to break into Oklahoma’s career top 10. ... Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops has an 8-2 career record against Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy. ... Oklahoma State gave up 700 yards against Baylor, its most since surrendering a school-record 718 against Texas Tech in 2007.

Betting line

Oklahoma by 6½