UPDATE: No. 17 Cincinnati (7-1, 5-0 Big 12) is set to face No. 24 Utah (6-2, 3-2) in a highly anticipated matchup this Saturday at 10:15 p.m. ET on ESPN as they seek their eighth consecutive victory. The Bearcats, under coach Scott Satterfield, have emerged as a surprising contender in the Big 12, showcasing an explosive offense led by quarterback Brendan Sorsby.
Cincinnati’s scoring prowess is impressive, averaging 38.3 points per game and ranking fourth nationally with 7.36 yards per play. This remarkable performance has propelled them to their first seven-game winning streak since their historic run to the College Football Playoff in 2021.
The upcoming clash marks the inaugural meeting between these two teams, with Utah’s only losses this season coming against ranked opponents, No. 10 BYU and No. 13 Texas Tech. The Utes are firing on all cylinders, coming off a staggering 53-7 victory against Colorado, where they dominated with a halftime lead of 43-0 and a season-high 422 yards rushing.
In addition to this marquee matchup, another key game features No. 13 Texas Tech (7-1, 4-1) taking on Kansas State (4-4, 3-2) on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET on Fox. Kansas State seeks to build on their recent success, having won three of their last four games while averaging 38 points during this stretch.
The Red Raiders are aiming for their best nine-game start since 2008, a season that marks their last victory in Manhattan. Quarterback Behren Morton, returning from injury, is crucial to their game plan.
As the Big 12 season unfolds, it’s notable that the conference currently boasts five ranked teams for the first time, including BYU, Texas Tech, Cincinnati, Houston, and Utah. This season’s competitiveness is exemplified by the fact that six teams have already secured bowl eligibility.
Fans should also watch for standout performances from players like Conner Weigman of No. 22 Houston, who has thrown for 671 yards with six touchdowns and no interceptions over the past three games. Kansas State’s Avery Johnson has been a force as well, achieving multiple touchdown passes in his last four games, closing in on the school record.
The excitement in the Big 12 is palpable, and with both Cincinnati and Utah poised for significant implications in the playoff picture, this week’s games promise to deliver thrilling action. Be sure to tune in and witness the unfolding drama of college football!