The November 1, 2025 matchup between the Oklahoma State Cowboys and the Kansas Jayhawks at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium represents a pivotal turning point for two Big 12 programs traveling in opposite directions. For Kansas, this game is about validating their upward trajectory under head coach Lance Leipold, whose steady rebuild has turned the Jayhawks into a respectable and competitive force after years of futility. Meanwhile, Oklahoma State, once one of the conference’s most consistent programs under longtime coach Mike Gundy, finds itself mired in one of its worst seasons in recent memory. The Cowboys enter this contest at 1–7 overall and winless in Big 12 play, a stunning collapse for a team that just a few years ago was competing for conference titles. The regression has been stark—offensive inefficiency, defensive breakdowns, and a lack of identity have left Gundy’s squad searching for answers. Kansas, on the other hand, has shown measurable progress, entering the game at 4–4 with an offense capable of scoring in bunches and a defense that has improved enough to complement their up-tempo style. The Jayhawks’ resurgence is powered by quarterback Jalon Daniels, whose dual-threat capability continues to give defenses headaches. When healthy, Daniels is one of the most dynamic playmakers in the Big 12, capable of creating chunk plays through both the air and on the ground. His chemistry with wide receiver Lawrence Arnold and tight end Mason Fairchild has helped Kansas develop into a more balanced offensive unit. Running back Devin Neal remains the focal point of the ground attack, a patient yet explosive runner who can wear down opposing defenses as the game progresses. Behind a cohesive offensive line, the Jayhawks have found success controlling tempo and sustaining drives, something that will be key against an Oklahoma State defense that has struggled mightily to get off the field on third downs.

Defensively, Kansas has made strides under coordinator Brian Borland, improving its tackling and gap discipline, though they still give up occasional explosive plays. Linebacker Rich Miller anchors the defense, while cornerback Cobee Bryant brings leadership and ball-hawking ability to the secondary. On the opposite sideline, Oklahoma State’s offensive woes have defined their season. Quarterback play has been erratic, the offensive line has struggled to protect, and the running game has lacked its usual punch. Veteran back Ollie Gordon, one of the few bright spots, remains capable of explosive gains but has been hampered by poor blocking and limited opportunities. The Cowboys’ passing game, once a hallmark of Gundy’s Air Raid-influenced system, has been inconsistent, plagued by turnovers and inefficiency. Defensively, Oklahoma State’s struggles have been even more glaring. The unit is allowing close to 40 points per game, with opponents routinely exploiting gaps in the secondary and winning battles in the trenches. Linebacker Collin Oliver and defensive tackle Justin Kirkland have done their best to hold things together, but the lack of complementary football has doomed this group. In this matchup, Kansas’ biggest advantage lies in rhythm and confidence. If the Jayhawks jump out early, Oklahoma State may not have the firepower to recover. The Cowboys will need to slow the game down, lean on their running backs, and force turnovers to keep things close. From a betting perspective, Kansas is expected to open as a heavy favorite—likely around -24.5 points—with a projected total near 58. The large spread reflects not only Oklahoma State’s offensive futility but also Kansas’ emergence as a capable home favorite. The Jayhawks have been more reliable at covering when favored in Lawrence, while the Cowboys have been a nightmare for bettors, failing to cover consistently in 2025. For Kansas, this is an opportunity to prove they can dominate inferior opponents rather than just compete with them. For Oklahoma State, it’s about salvaging pride and showing signs of life. Unless the Cowboys find a way to reestablish offensive rhythm and contain Daniels’ dual-threat magic, Kansas should control the game from start to finish and continue its steady climb up the Big 12 hierarchy.