The Oklahoma State Cowboys ended their two-game losing streak by defeating the Kansas State Wildcats with a score of 29-21 on Friday night. The Cowboys, who were considered underdogs by 11.5 points, had suffered back-to-back losses to Iowa State and South Alabama before this victory.
Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating that the coaching staff did an excellent job, and the players remained focused amidst external distractions. The win was significant as it came against a strong opponent.
In the game, Oklahoma State took an early lead and extended it to 26-7 in the third quarter. Kicker Alex Hale played a crucial role, scoring four field goals. Running back Ollie Gordon had an outstanding performance, rushing for 136 yards, marking his second consecutive 100-yard rushing game. Quarterback Alan Bowman, who transferred from Texas Tech, went 19 of 35 for 235 yards.
Despite a late rally from Kansas State, the Wildcats were unable to overcome the deficit. Quarterback Will Howard was intercepted by Cowboys linebacker Nickolas Martin, who had a career-high 17 tackles and a sack. The Cowboys’ defense sealed the win by forcing a turnover on downs in the final moments.
With this loss, Kansas State’s hopes of making it to the New Year’s Six and College Football Playoff are diminished. Only three teams in the Big 12 remain undefeated in the conference: Oklahoma, Texas, and West Virginia. The Red River Rivalry between Oklahoma and Texas will further narrow down the undefeated teams.
In the next game, Oklahoma State will face Kansas at home, while Kansas State will travel to Lubbock, Texas to take on Texas Tech.
