Tulsa World: OU: 3 Storylines

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OU: 3 Storylines

By JOHN E. HOOVER World Sports Writer
Published: 11/22/2008 3:50 AM
Last Modified: 11/22/2008 11:47 AM

A look at five key things to watch in today’s Texas Tech-OU contest.

Red square

Oklahoma has had almost no problems in the red zone this season, leading the nation by scoring 94.6 percent of the time. That includes 50 touchdowns on 56 trips. But the Red Raider defense excels at stopping teams inside the 20- yard line. Of the 33 times opponents have been inside the red zone, they’ve scored just 18 touchdowns and made six turnovers. Both figures are the best in the Big 12.

Turnover tale

The Sooners lead the nation with eight turnovers lost — seven interceptions and one fumble. Texas Tech has 14 giveaways. With both offenses scoring at a quick and efficient pace, continued ball security by the Sooners on Saturday could lead to an avalanche of points. Tech, though, has two of the Big 12’s top three interception leaders and two of the top four sack leaders. If the Red Raider defense — with its 24 takeaways (a Big 12-best 16 interceptions) — can stay productive, Tech could score an upset.

Dynamic duos

Who has the better running back tandem? OU’s DeMarco Murray ranks third in the Big 12 in rushing (80.4 ypg) and Chris Brown ranks fourth (78.2). Tech’s Baron Batch is ninth (66.7) and Shannon Woods is 11th (58.8), but the Tech duo adds another 64 yards per game receiving. (Brown and Murray add 36.) A likely scenario: Whichever team has the better rushing success relative to its own season average could win big.

By JOHN E. HOOVER World Sports Writer

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