Despite losing in their season opener, the No. 24 Cincinnati Bearcats have picked up five-straight wins, including a statement victory over No. 14 Iowa State. Now undefeated in Big 12 play, the Bearcats will look to keep their streak alive when they take on Oklahoma State on Saturday, Oct. 18.
The conference battle will kick off at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN2 in Stillwater, with the Bearcats picked as 21.5-point favorites on the road. The over/under is set at 58.5 total points. Here are two key players to watch in this game, followed by the top storylines for each team, and a prediction from Heartland College Sports.
Two Key Players to Watch
Brendan Sorsby (QB, Cincinnati)
Brendan Sorsby has brought a balanced approach to the Bearcats’ offense, showing improved decision-making and the ability to extend plays with his legs. He’s coming off a stretch of efficient outings and has done well protecting the football, throwing just one pick this season. If Cincinnati wants to stay undefeated in Big 12 play, Sorsby’s ability to command the offense and deliver in key moments will be pivotal, especially in a tough road environment like Stillwater.
Rodney Fields Jr. (RB, Oklahoma State)
Despite ongoing uncertainty at quarterback, running back Rodney Fields Jr. has been one of the most reliable contributors for the Cowboys. Last week, he totaled 44 rushing yards and added 63 receiving yards along with a touchdown, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and pass-catcher. If Oklahoma State hopes to play spoiler down the stretch, it’ll need Fields to continue being a steady presence in the offense and a spark plug in key moments.
Two Key Storylines
Road Test for the Bearcats
This marks just the second road game of the season for Cincinnati, and it comes in one of the Big 12’s toughest environments. How the Bearcats handle the noise and physicality of a trip to Stillwater will be a key test of their placement in conference play. They’ll face a fired-up Oklahoma State crowd hungry for a win, making composure and execution critical if Cincinnati hopes to remain unbeaten in the Big 12.
Evan Pryor Could Be X-Factor
Cincinnati will need a strong showing from running back Evan Pryor if it hopes to stay unbeaten in Big 12 play. He is yet to see more than 11 carries in a game this season, but he made the most of his opportunities in the Bearcats’ biggest win to date, totaling 111 yards against a ranked Iowa State defense. With a tough test ahead in Stillwater, Cincinnati could lean more heavily on Pryor to control the tempo, take pressure off Sorsby, and help quiet a hostile Oklahoma State crowd early.
Prediction: Cincinnati 35, Oklahoma State 14
Cincinnati has found a groove behind a balanced offensive attack, while Oklahoma State is still searching for answers at quarterback and struggling to find rhythm. The Bearcats’ defense has been opportunistic, and with Pryor emerging in the backfield, they have enough firepower to win on the road. While this one could stay tight through the first half, expect Cincinnati to take control late and hand Oklahoma State its sixth loss of the season.
