Big 12 Football: 5 most important non-conference games in 2017

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Jan 2, 2017; New Orleans , LA, USA; Oklahoma Sooners cornerback Jordan Thomas (7) reacts with teammates after intercepting a pass against the Auburn Tigers in the fourth quarter of the 2017 Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Oklahoma at Ohio State, Sept. 9

The Oklahoma Sooners look to return to the College Football Playoff, something they failed to do in 2016. They’ll need to get a victory this season against the Ohio State Buckeyes if they want a chance.

The Sooners seem to have mastered the Big 12 Conference. They’ve won the last two titles and have won 10 total championships, the most by any team in the conference.

Oklahoma’s offense returns nine players on offense, seven on defense which makes for better potential results on the field in 2017. Last season’s 45-24 loss to the Buckeyes was uncharacteristic, particularly at home, for the Sooners.

Their chance for redemption comes in Week 2 next year. Quarterback Baker Mayfield will look to limit his turnovers this go round as a top senior to watch in the FBS. He threw two touchdowns but also two interceptions in last season’s matchup.

They’ll need to replace their two-headed monster at running back, but with Mayfield calling plays they should be in good hands.

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