Oklahoma-BYU Preview and Pick – A Quarterback Battle to Behold

Things are always big in Texas, and when the Sooners and Cougars try to catch a massive point total behind the arms of Max Hall and Heisman trophy winner Sam Bradford in the $1 billion Texas Stadium, it will be no exception. It’s going to be a grand stage for both Hall and Bradford to showcase their Heisman credentials, but both quarterbacks know that their ultimate stock will lie in their team’s success. BYU needs a win to climb up from its twentieth ranking according to the AP. Oklahoma, simply, can not afford a loss.

While Max Hall certainly has plenty of credentials, the oddsmakers aren’t giving the Cougars any credit at all. Plenty of that has to do with the fact that sophomore Sam Bradford won the Heisman last year on the heels of a 50 touchdown season. BYU went 10-3 SU last season behind Hall, who threw for 3,957 yards and 35 touchdowns, but also forced 14 picks.

The main concern for Sooners’ bettors is the newly revamped offensive line, that lost four starters. We don’t have to doubt whether Bradford has the goods or not, because he’s proved it. But he’s had just one short summer to get used to a new offensive line, and a brand new receiving corps that lost three starters as well. Chris Brown and DeMarco Murray, who each had 1,000 rushing yards last season, return to the fold to pad Bradford.

BYU Cougars vs. Oklahoma Sooners

Saturday, September 5th — Cowboys Stadium, Arlington — 7:00pm EST

NCAAF Betting Line: Oklahoma -22 (65.5)

That being said, this is Oklahoma. BYU is getting a nod from the AP largely due to Max Hall’s skill level and their 10-3 SU reason in 2008. Don’t get itchy with the BYU betting line just because they’re getting massive points in their favor. Bob Stoops, head coach of the Sooners, has lost the opener just once in 10 years at the helm, and that was four seasons ago.

Big things happen in Texas, and nothing will be bigger this weekend than Bradford’s 2009 debut as he defends his Heisman, and the third overall ranking of his Oklahoma Sooners. Revenge is on the minds of this program after getting derailed by the Florida Gators in the BCS Championship game. Get out of the damn way.

Furious Free Pick: Oklahoma -22 (OVER)