Top 5 matchups for Week 4 of the 2024 college football season
3. No. 12 Utah vs. No. 14 Oklahoma State – Saturday, 4:00 p.m. ET, FOX
Utah and Oklahoma State will begin what could be a fun Big 12 rivalry between two of the country鈥檚 longest-tenured head coaches: Kyle Whittingham and Mike Gundy. The two programs have played each other just once before, a 46-6 win for the Utes in Salt Lake City way back in 1945, but their second-ever matchup is a big one between top-15 teams that could go a long way in deciding who wins the Big 12.
Despite the higher ranking, Utah will be a slight underdog as it plays its first game in Stillwater following three strong wins over Southern Utah, Baylor and Utah State to begin the season. All eyes will be on starting quarterback Cameron Rising as his status remains in question due to a hand injury. Freshman Isaac Wilson played decently in Rising鈥檚 Week 3 absence, but the veteran presence Rising has is irreplaceable in a tough road game.聽
Whittingham鈥檚 defense has also been solid, ranking 21st in the country, and will be put to the test by an Oklahoma State offense that has put up at least 39 points in all three of its wins. The Cowboys feature a top-10 passing attack in the country led by veteran Alan Bowman who is already closing in on 1,000 yards through three games. The Pokes also have four receivers with over 100 yards already while running back Ollie Gordon II remains one of the best in the country. Despite the Utes鈥� solid defense, this game could ultimately turn into a shootout which would favor the home team, particularly if Rising is forced to sit out again.
