Keys to the Game: TCU @ Oklahoma State

As you are well aware, there are a lot of great offenses in the Big 12. TCU faces off against another one this Saturday in Stillwater as they take on Oklahoma State. The Frogs will need to bring their A-game once again if they want to leave Boone Pickens Stadium with a win. Here are this week’s Keys to the Game.

Pressure the OSU QB: This is a common theme every week, but it is imperative that TCU gets pressure on Wes Lunt or whoever will be starting at QB. We all saw what Tech was able to do when Doege had time in the pocket. Lunt is not only returning from a knee injury, he is battling an ankle sprain as well, so he could definitely be facing some mobility issues.

Take Shots Down Field: It’s clear at this point that Trevone Boykin has the arm and accuracy to throw the long ball. TCU needs to take more chances down the field in the passing game. I thought the Frogs were way too conservative last week against Texas Tech. OSU is giving up 237 yard per game through the air this season. If David Ash can throw for over 300 yards against the Cowboys, Boykin should be able to capitalize as well.

Capitalize on Red Zone Opportunities: One of the main reasons TCU lost last week was because they settled for field goals while Tech was scoring touchdowns. The Frogs must stop letting drives stall and get into the end zone. Oklahoma State is averaging over 45 points per game. The Cowboys will light up the scoreboard if you aren’t prepared.

Don’t Sleep On the Running Game: When a lot of people think of Oklahoma State, they think of their passing game. The Cowboys have a solid running game as well and Joseph Randle isn’t one to be taken lightly. Randle has rushed for over 100 yards in every game but one this season. OSU is ranked 8^th in rushing yards averaging over 250 yards per game on the ground.

Turnovers: The Frogs turnover issues reared their ugly head once again against Texas Tech. They need to put those issues back to bed this week. It is pretty simple actually. Don’t turn the ball over and you have a better chance at winning, see the Baylor game…When you turn the ball over multiple times, you normally lose, see the Iowa State and Tech games.

This game is going to be tough. OSU has a solid rushing and passing attack that the Frogs defense will have to try and slow down. The good thing is this team seems to play better on the road than at home. It will be an intimidating atmosphere, but the TCU Tadpoles can get the win if they stay disciplined.