Big 12 Football: Week 8 Power Rankings

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Oct 22, 2016; Lubbock, TX, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Dede Westbrook (11) is tackled by Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive back Jordyn Brooks (20) in the first half at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Oklahoma Sooners (Record: 5-2)

Like Texas Tech, the offensive numbers the Sooners put up were insane. I’m sure anyone watching who wasn’t akin to the way Big 12 offenses function was taken aback at the video game numbers. But it’s safe to say in Baker Mayfield’s return to Lubbock, he was pretty satisfied with the overall offensive performance–despite only winning by seven points.

Discussing all the statistics and records that were broken that day requires another article, so I’m skipping the offensive praises in favor of a more pressing issue: the Sooners’ defense. After its offense put up exactly 854 yards of total offense, Oklahoma’s defense allowed 854 total yards of offense, 42 first downs and allowed the Red Raiders to convert on 20 of its 25 third down conversion attempts. Oklahoma now ranks No. 127 in the nation in total passing defense after Mahomes’ vertical attack, and No. 116 in total defense. This has led to a growing number of Sooners’ fans wanting defensive coordinator Mike Stoops’ resignation, or for him to be fired.

Oklahoma faces Kansas at home this weekend, but if the Sooners want to keep moving up in the polls, defensive adjustments must be made.

Next Game:

Sat, Oct 29

Oklahoma

vs.

Kansas

Norman, Okla.

6:00 p.m.

FS1

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