College football Week 8: Penn State among 5 teams on upset alert

College football upset alert No. 3: Oklahoma State Cowboys

Rank: 6 | Opponent: 17 Iowa State Cyclones | Time: Saturday, Oct. 24, 3:30 p.m. ET

There is only one overall undefeated team remaining in the Big 12 as we come into Week 8, the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Even though starting quarterback Spencer Sanders went out in the first quarter of their first game, Mike Gundy’s team has stepped up in a big way, particularly with one of the best defenses in the conference. Hence why they’ve moved up to No. 6.

Having said that, the Pokes will face their toughest test to date in the 2020 season when the Iowa State Cyclones come to Stillwater for a Week 8 matchup. After Brock Purdy and his team were upset in their season-opener against Louisiana-Lafayette, they have since seemingly found their groove and have won three straight games to this point.

Because of the quarterback and the offense finding its mojo for Iowa State, the Cowboys defense could be tested the most that they’ve been yet this season. That’s factor one for a potential upset on Saturday afternoon. On top of that, though, Sanders’ return is possible but not certain for this game, which limits the upside of the Oklahoma State offense.

What also can’t be overlooked is that the Cowboys haven’t played a game in three weeks as their matchup with Baylor was postponed. Given the potential for rust as a result of that and with Matt Campbell having a bye week to prepare, Iowa State should be able to give Mike Gundy’s team all that they can handle — and perhaps more than they can.