BCS Rankings: Why Oklahoma State Is Bound for Title Game

Before then-No. 6 Oklahoma's loss to unranked Texas Tech in Week 8, I thought there was no way it could lose to Oklahoma State.

The Sooners had a much better defense, and when it comes to giants playing each other, that tends to be a distinct advantage.

However, after Oklahoma's 41-38 loss to the Red Raiders, I realized something: Oklahoma can be scored on.

It's worth noting that Oklahoma giving up that many points was highly uncharacteristic. The Sooners were considered one of the best defenses in the nation before that game, and they are still considered one of the best in the nation.

But after Texas Tech quarterback Seth Doege threw for 441 yards and four touchdowns on that fateful day, it was clear Oklahoma didn't have the defense of, say, an Alabama or LSU.

The Sooners are giving up 19.1 points per game this season and gave up 28 points to the Missouri Tigers, with quarterback James Franklin tossing for 291 yards and a touchdown (I don't mention them giving up 133 rushing yards to running back Henry Josey because he's proved he's a legit star this season).

What does that mean?

It means they are still going to have to score a ton of points to beat Oklahoma State on Dec. 3.

I don't doubt that Oklahoma can rack up points behind quarterback Landry Jones and receiver Ryan Broyles. The Sooners are averaging 46.0 points per game this season, good for fifth in the country.

What I do doubt is if Oklahoma can limit Oklahoma State enough to come out on top.

The Cowboys are averaging 49.9 points per game this season, second in the nation. And while they were limited against Texas A&M (30 points) and Texas (38 points), they are only getting better.

Quarterback Brandon Weeden and receiver Justin Blackmon are the best offensive duo in college football, and running backs Joseph Randle and Jeremy Smith aren't bad, either.

I believe this is one of those few cases in which a high-powered offense will beat a dominant defense.

Expect No. 2 Alabama to defeat No. 1 LSU in Week 10 and for Oklahoma State to end the season as the No. 2 team in the country.