The Oklahoma State Cowboys (10-2) face the Baylor Bears (10-2) in the 2021 Big 12 Championship Game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Oklahoma State enters as 5.5-point favorites with the over/under set at 46.5 points.

Baylor has been one of college football's biggest turnarounds, improving from 2-7 in 2021 to 10-2 this season under head coach Dave Aranda. The Bears seek their first conference title since sharing the Big 12 crown in 2014.

Oklahoma State aims for their first conference championship since 2011 and could potentially earn a College Football Playoff spot with a victory.

Defensive Battle Expected

The Cowboys have transformed into a defensive powerhouse in 2021, ranking top-10 nationally by allowing just 16.4 points per game. Only Oklahoma has scored more than 24 points against them this season.

Oklahoma State's offense has been inconsistent, scoring under 24 points in half their games. QB Spencer Sanders has been more effective running than passing, completing just 60% of throws with multiple interceptions in their last game. RB Jaylen Warren leads the ground attack with over 1,100 rushing yards.

Key Matchup Factor

Baylor's quarterback situation remains uncertain as starter Gerry Bohanon missed last week's game due to injury. Freshman Blake Shapen filled in but the Bears would prefer having their experienced starter for this crucial matchup.

The Bears defense has been equally impressive, holding opponents to 19.7 points per game and forcing 20 turnovers this season, including three in their previous meeting with Oklahoma State.

Both teams enter with quarterback uncertainties - Bohanon's injury status for Baylor and Sanders' passing inconsistency for Oklahoma State. The quarterback play will likely determine the outcome between these defensive-minded teams.

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