Colorado football has shown signs of offensive improvement in recent weeks, but the Buffaloes still have plenty to prove as they prepare for Saturday's Big 12 matchup against Oklahoma State.
The Buffaloes look to snap a four-game losing streak after a narrow 27-24 loss to No. 11 Utah, their highest offensive output against an FBS opponent this year. Colorado is averaging 394.2 yards per game, but those numbers haven't translated into consistent scoring. However, Oklahoma State's defense struggled mightily in its latest outing, allowing 505 total yards and five passing touchdowns against Houston.
Here's how Colorado's offense matches up against Oklahoma State's defense ahead of Saturday's conference showdown.
Tale of the tape
Wilson faces a defense coming off a difficult outing
Isaac Wilson has passed for 699 yards
and four touchdowns, with five interceptions, across four appearances. He has started Colorado's past two games, includingSaturday'ss loss to Utah.
Oklahoma State allowed Houston quarterback Conner Weigman to throw for 343 yards and five touchdowns last weekend. Houston finished with 505 total yards, providing Colorado with recent film of an opponent sustaining drives against the Cowboys.
Running game can help Colorado extend possessions
JaQuail Smith carried 13 times for 73 yards against Utah and added a 68-yard touchdown reception. Colorado finished with 139 rushing yards on 24 attempts, averaging 5.8 yards per carry.
Oklahoma State allows 3.9 yards per rush. Productive early-down carries would help Colorado avoid relying on third-down conversions against a defense allowing opponents to convert 34.5% of those attempts.
Turnovers remain a concern
Colorado has thrown eight interceptions and lost five fumbles through six games. Oklahoma State has intercepted five passes and recovered two fumbles.
The Buffaloes also need to finish scoring opportunities. They have scored on 12 of 17 red-zone possessions, including eight touchdowns, while Oklahoma State has allowed points on 13 of 18 opponent trips.
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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado's offense hopes to take another step against Oklahoma State
