Big 12 Football: Week 7 Preview – Upsets Brewing in the West?
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A pivotal Week 7 in the Big 12 Conference sees several key matchups, particularly from the West division, with potential for surprising outcomes. No. 18 BYU travels to Tucson to face Arizona, while No. 21 Arizona State battles Utah in Salt Lake City. Colorado hosts No. 22 Iowa State in a game ripe for an upset, and several other intriguing contests round out the schedule.
Colorado vs. No. 22 Iowa State: Buffs Seek Breakthrough
Saturday, October 11, 12:30 pm PT, ESPN
Colorado appears to be on the cusp of improvement, while Iowa State is showing signs of regression – a dynamic that could lead to a stunning victory for the Buffaloes in Boulder. However, a clean game is paramount for Colorado. Quarterback Kaidon Salter has struggled with turnovers recently, throwing three interceptions against TCU and more picks than touchdowns in his last two games. “That’s just not going to cut it,” one analyst stated, particularly against a Cyclone defense hampered by the absence of its top two corners.
Colorado’s receiving corps presents a threat, but the focus remains on Salter’s decision-making. Defensively, containing Iowa State’s Rocco Becht, a key player in short-yardage situations, is crucial. Despite only 55 rushing yards and a modest 1.1 yards per carry, Becht has seven rushing touchdowns this season. If the Colorado defense can win at the line of scrimmage and limit Becht’s gains, their chances of securing a win will significantly increase.
No. 18 BYU at Arizona: A Battle in the Trenches
Saturday, October 11, 5:00 pm PT, ESPN2
The outcome of the contest between No. 18 BYU and Arizona hinges on which team controls the line of scrimmage. BYU boasts strong line play on both sides of the ball, but Arizona’s defensive schemes are proving difficult to crack. The Wildcats have yet to allow a passing touchdown this season, largely due to their aggressive pressure and pre-snap movement.
Arizona’s defense currently ranks No. 4 nationally in tackles for loss, No. 7 in turnovers forced, and No. 31 in sacks. This presents a formidable challenge for BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier. However, Bachmeier’s ability to run effectively could disrupt Arizona’s defensive coordinator Danny Gonzales’s play-calling, creating opportunities in the passing game. “Buckle up, this will be a good one,” according to a source close to the Arizona program.
No. 21 Arizona State at Utah: A Strategic Chess Match
Saturday, October 11, 7:15 pm PT, ESPN
This matchup between No. 21 Arizona State and Utah promises a compelling tactical battle. The game features compelling head-to-head matchups, including Kyle Whittingham versus Kenny Dillingham, Devon Dampier versus Sam Leavitt, and Morgan Scalley versus Brian Ward.
The key question revolves around how Arizona State’s defensive coordinator will contain Utah’s quarterback. Utah’s offense struggles when Dampier is effectively contained. If ASU’s front seven can consistently pressure the Ute offensive line, a Sun Devil victory is within reach. However, if Dampier finds running lanes and connects with his receivers, Utah will likely control the game. Turnovers and the execution of Arizona State’s Sam Leavitt will also be critical factors. Arizona State’s rushing attack, currently ranked No. 20 nationally and No. 3 in the Big 12, is a significant X-factor. The Utes are seeking their first Big 12 home win, adding another layer of intrigue to the contest.
The Rest of the Big 12: Key Games to Watch
Several other games deserve attention this week. Texas Tech hosts Kansas, and the 14-point spread may underestimate the Jayhawks’ potential. Jalon Daniels’ impressive 16-to-2 touchdown-to-interception ratio suggests a closer-than-expected contest.
Cincinnati, playing with momentum, should be receiving more recognition from the AP voters. Facing rival Central Florida, the Bearcats have an opportunity to make a statement and address the perceived national bias against the Big 12.
TCU travels to Kansas State in a tightly contested matchup. The Wildcats’ home-field advantage and TCU’s offensive firepower create a compelling dynamic. A win for TCU could propel them back into the AP Top 25.
Finally, Houston faces Oklahoma State in an intriguing contest. While Oklahoma State has a capable defense, Houston is an improved team and is favored to win, though an upset remains a possibility if the Cowboys’ offense performs well.
Dane Miller covers College Basketball and College Football as well as Formula 1 racing as a Senior Writer and Assistant Editor for SuperWest Sports. Latest posts by Dane Miller (see all).
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