Fearless prediction: Texas A&M at Oklahoma State

Thursday
Texas A&M (3-0) at Oklahoma State (3-0) (7:30 p.m., ESPN): No, it’s not a game between ranked teams. But it’s an interesting game in terms of which team is for real and which team can contend in the Big 12 South. Remember, Texas was embarrassed at home by UCLA last week and Oklahoma has struggled in three of its four wins this season. The Big 12 South race is open for business. The winner of this game needs to be watched going forward. The Cowboys have scored a ton of points this season, averaging 57 per game. In just three games thus far: Brandon Weeden, a 26-year-old junior, as thrown 11 touchdowns with just two interceptions; Kendall Hunter has rushed for 473 yards and six touchdowns; and Justin Blackmon has 24 catches and eight touchdowns. Blackmon has over 100 receiving yards in each game. The one concern is Oklahoma State’s defense. The Cowboys are giving up 28 points per game, including 38 against a good Troy team. Texas A&M’s offense is averaging 41 points and over 500 yards a game. Jerrod Johnson has thrown for over 300 yards twice this season. Christine Michael has rushed for over 100 yards in every game this season. Texas A&M’s defense, a problem last season, is playing much better this season, allowing just 14 points per game. Expect a lot of points in this game. Oklahoma State’s defense hasn’t been great thus far, but the Cowboys are +1 in turnover margin with six fumble recoveries and three interceptions. Texas A&M has turned the ball over nine times in three games. Johnson threw four interceptions two weeks ago against Florida International, a game the Aggies trailed 20-6 in the fourth quarter before rallying. Oklahoma State’s offense is playing at a high level. The Cowboys will be at home and ready to show the entire nation that they’re a legitimate top 25 team. Texas A&M’s program is moving in the right direction. But the Aggies are not ready to win this game on the road. A late turnover benefits the Cowboys. Oklahoma State wins 34-31