#20 Oklahoma vs. #3 Texas Preview

October 17th 12:00 ET

Line: Texas -3

Few games can match the intensity of The Red River Rivalry (still shoot out to many). The stakes are always high and the setting is euphoric. The game is played at the Cotton Bowl during the Texas State Fair. The Texas burnt orange and the Oklahoma crimson divide the stadium evenly in front of a national audience.

The undefeated Longhorns haven’t been as impressive as most would expect. They struggled mightily in their only true test against Texas Tech. In that game, Heisman hopeful Colty McCoy threw for only 205 yards with a single touchdown to go along with 2 interceptions. On the season McCoy has only thrown 10 TDs but even more surprising are his 6 interceptions. The running game has been solid with two running backs over two hundred yards for the season. Senior WR Jordan Shipley is McCoy’s favorite target. Shipley has hauled in 47 catches for 583 yards and 3 scores. On defense, Texas has been impressive in its last two games but each was played against inferior opponents. In the Cotton Bowl on October 17th, Sam Bradford and the Sooners are a much greater challenge.

The Sooners defeated Baylor easily 33-7 in their last contest moving their record to 3-2. Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford made his return and put up gaudy numbers. Bradford finished the day 27 of 49 for 289 yards and a score. However, he didn’t look like the old Bradford and as expected was shaking off some rust. DeMarco Murray had a good day rushing for 107 yards on 24 carries while WR Brandon Caleb hauled in 7 balls for 139 yards.

Prediction: Bradford should be ready to go and at near strength. The Sooners O-Line, which has struggled in their losses, needs to have a good day against an aggressive Texas front. The Oklahoma defense is far better than any defense Texas has faced; look for McCoy to make a number of plays using his feet. Jordan Shipley will have a big day and keep the chains moving. In a very close, intense game Texas keeps their National Championship dreams alive. Prediction: Texas 23 - Oklahoma 20

> Check out the great Big 12 sports gear includingOklahoma apparel & clothing available online through Big 12 Fans!

By Scott Dryden
DFN SPorts Senior Staff Writer

Find more Big 12 football articles online through Big12-fans.com!