Colorado's defense faces Oklahoma State on Saturday, with the Cowboys ranked fourth nationally in passing offense and fifth in total offense. It is easily the toughest matchup of the season for defensive coordinator Chris Marve's unit.
Oklahoma State is 4-2 overall and 2-1 in Big 12 play, averaging 37.2 points per game under first-year coach Eric Morris. Colorado is 2-4 and 0-3 following a 27-24 loss to Utah.
Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. MT on FS1 at Boone Pickens Stadium. Here is everything you need to know as Colorado's defense takes on an explosive Oklahoma State offense.
Tale of the tape
Drew Mestemaker leads the passing attack
Mestemaker has completed 67% of his passes for 1,940 yards and 16 touchdowns, with six interceptions. His 323.3 passing yards per game average ranks second nationally, and he
has surpassed 300 yards in five straight games.
Receiver Wyatt Young averages 93.5 receiving yards per game, giving Colorado’s secondary another productive target after facing Utah.
Oklahoma State has allowed five sacks through six games. Colorado will need to generate pressure against a protection unit that ranks among the nation’s best in sacks allowed.
Caleb Hawkins adds a rushing threat
Hawkins averages 98.7 rushing yards per game, ranking 18th nationally. Oklahoma State averages 5.1 yards per carry, while Colorado has held opponents to 3.5.
Marve’s front will need to limit early-down gains to create longer passing situations.
Turnovers could provide opportunities
Oklahoma State has committed 11 turnovers, including five lost fumbles. Colorado has forced seven takeaways through six games and intercepted two Utah passes last Saturday.
More possessions would help the Buffaloes manage a Cowboys offense that has scored more than 30 points in five straight games.
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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado defense faces its toughest test against Oklahoma State
