CFP Rankings 2021, Top 10: Week 12 recap, previewing week 13

10. Oklahoma (10-1)

Week 12 result: Defeated Iowa State 28-21

There aren’t many occasions where you get to say that Oklahoma’s defense won them a game. But this was actually one of those occasions. The Sooners’ defense held down Iowa State pretty much all game limiting them to 4-of-18 on third-down conversions and forcing three turnovers.

One of those turnovers was a ‘big boy’ fumble return touchdown by Jalen Redmond, too. You always love to see those big guys get in for a score. The sophomore lineman was a beast this whole game getting four QB pressures and recording a sack. His PFF tackling grade was 72.8.

Give credit to Alex Grinch, their defensive coordinator, for turning it around in this one.

Now if only the Sooners could just get their offense and defense on the same page. It seems like when one side of the ball is clicking, the other is struggling.

Let’s see if Lincoln Riley can put it all together in this final week. Oklahoma still has a chance at making the Big 12 title game if they can upset their in-state rival this upcoming Saturday.

Next game: vs. Oklahoma State
My prediction: Win 27-20