Big 12 Football: Week 1 Power Rankings

Record in previous 5 games: 4-1

Total offense rank: 8th

Total defense rank: 6th

Iowa State and opening day have not meshed well as of late. Since 2016, the Cyclones are 3-3 on their opening game and two of those wins were by one possession against Northern Iowa.

This game was not pretty as each team scored one touchdown each while combining for three points in the second half. As good as Iowa State’s defense was, they did allow a 50% conversion rate on 3rd down (18 attempts).

There are a lot of expectations for this Iowa State team, which is returning 20 starters from last year’s team. This is a team that has a legitimate chance to compete for a National Championship in 2021.

They will need to get back on track quickly, as they play another in-state rival with El Assico being played this Saturday. A win here would keep them humming with the playoff pack. A loss would put them in a scenario where they have to win out to reach those playoff dreams.

Next Game: vs #10 Iowa

Record in previous 5 games: 5-0

Total offense rank: 3rd

Total defense rank: 9th

Yet another Big 12 game in which the heavy favorite almost blew it after a dominant first half. Oklahoma played lights out football in the first half. Offensive firepower, turnovers, and excellent special teams play were all displayed by the Sooners.

But, that second half got far too close for comfort. Tulane had a shot to win this game with two minutes left after being down by as much as 23 points. Oklahoma survived this one, but cannot afford for one bad half to turn into a loss on the record.

Despite the close call, they are still the cream of the conference. We know what Spencer Rattler and this offense can do. If the defense continues to improve as they did the past two seasons, Oklahoma should find itself in a good spot to make the playoff.

Next Game: vs Western Carolina