Big 12 power rankings: Texas loses again, Oklahoma survives

Iowa State had its easiest week yet against Iowa State, winning 27-3. It was never in doubt, either, with a quarter-to-quarter domination of the Big 12’s worst team.

On the other hand, the Cyclones own a four-game winning streak that took them from the Big 12’s basement, including a lost week due to weather, to fourth place in the conference standings. A remarkable turnaround, especially with wins over Oklahoma State, West Virginia and Texas Tech.

Baylor, Texas, Kansas State and Incarnate Word remain on the schedule. At least a 7-5 record seems likely, with the potential to upset a reeling Texas squad on Nov. 17.

Texas had their matchup against West Virginia locked up after quarterback Sam Ehlinger’s touchdown pass. Then came Will Grier’s dart to the end zone with just seconds remaining, and a successful two-point conversation was the nail in the coffin for this would-be game to make them 7-2. Instead, they’re 6-3.

This became the Longhorns’ second consecutive loss, and the other one was close, as well, after a three-point margin with Oklahoma State.

Momentum developed from the Red River Rivalry win hasn’t dissipated, but they no longer have a grasp of the Big 12 championship game. They need Oklahoma or the Mountaineers to falter for this to become real again.

Texas Tech and Iowa State aren’t automatic wins, so it’s possible that Texas drops to 6-5 by the middle of November. They close against Kansas, so 7-5 is the floor, but can they go one step further?