Red River Rivalry: Texas vs. Oklahoma

Quarterback Experience: Landry Jones is in his third season as a starter. He has played in two of these games. As we saw in the touchdown answering drive against Florida State, he knows what it takes to win. The Sooners seem to have an on/off switch. Jones must make sure it’s on from the start.  Texas needs to get him out of the pocket. He’s far less accurate on the move and far more likely to throw a pick.

Texas Offense: It’s better than last season, but I’m not sure they have enough to keep up. The dual quarterbacks have been solid, though neither has performed in this tense of an environment. The Longhorns have nice running backs, but none has emerged as an explosive force. I’m not sold on the Texas offensive line, to handle Oklahoma’s defensive front or to get to the second level and plug up the linebackers. Bryan Harsin will need a ten gallon hat full of rabbits. His chicanery has beaten Oklahoma before.

Turnovers: Turnovers generally decide this game. Both defenses have the playmakers to create them. If Texas pulls off the upset, it will be because they made plays on defense and turned them into points.

Prediction: This game was close last year, when the disparity between the teams was far greater. Oklahoma are clear favorites, but I think this is closer than expected. Let’s go Oklahoma 24-17 Texas. Good Texas team, but they’re not quite ready yet.