Oklahoma Beats Baylor 30-23 in Overtime to Win Big 12 Title Game

Despite the valiant efforts of Jacob Zeno in the fourth quarter, Oklahoma knocked off Baylor 30-23 in overtime to win the Big 12 Championship Game.

Baylor trailed 23-13 in the fourth quarter. Charlie Brewer left in the first half with a concussion in the second quarter. Gerry Bohanon entered and managed to hit TyQuan Thornton on 3rd and 20 for a touchdown. He also lofted a nice pass to Thornton for 29 yards. But Bohanon couldn’t get much going after that.

Matt Rhule elected to play Jacob Zeno after that. On Zeno’s second play, he hit Trestan Ebner for an 81 yard touchdown. The next series, he found Chris Platt for a long gain. John Mayers would end the series with a field goal. Mayers hit all three kicks, including a 44 yard attempt.

In overtime, Oklahoma scored on their first drive. The Bears couldn’t contain Oklahoma on their only drive, and they scored a touchdown. Zeno took over and was sacked on 3rd and 10. On 4th and 20, Oklahoma got home again, and Zeno couldn’t get the ball more than a few yards downfield.

The defense had a spectacular day. They allowed just 23 points and gave Baylor a 13-10 halftime lead. They forced two turnovers. And when Oklahoma had the ball late in the fourth quarter with a chance to win, they got another big stop.

This is a devastating loss because Baylor was so close twice against Oklahoma. The Sooners will make the playoff if LSU can beat Georgia. Baylor would have been in that spot with a win today.The Bears may also play in the Sugar Bowl this season. But to get this close and miss the playoff will sting until Baylor’s back in this spot. That shouldn’t be too long with Matt Rhule and Zeno around.