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College football fans witnessed a chaotic weekend that ushered in a flurry of excitement for upcoming regular-season finales. As part of these critical matchups, the Colorado Buffaloes, holding an 8-3 season record, will face the Oklahoma State Cowboys, currently at 3-8, this Friday. The clash will take place on Colorado’s home turf, where oddsmakers have marked the Buffaloes as 16.5-point favorites with a total score prediction of 65.5.

**Oklahoma State Cowboys Betting Preview: Fighting Spirit**

Despite enduring one of the most challenging seasons under coach Mike Gundy, the Oklahoma State Cowboys have demonstrated resilience. The team has clinched three wins this season but has not given up the fight. Last week's heart-wrenching loss to Texas Tech, where the Cowboys had a 98% win probability at one point, showcased their determination. Quarterback Maealiuaki Smith’s performance—over 300 passing yards and two touchdowns—highlighted an offense that remains potent, with an impressive average of over nine yards per play.

Running back Ollie Gordon had a standout game last week, rushing for 156 yards and scoring three touchdowns on just 15 carries against Texas Tech. With Colorado’s defense struggling, particularly against the run, the Cowboys' offense could exploit these weaknesses. Coach Gundy's strategy may include aggressive fourth-down plays to keep the pressure on Colorado.

**Colorado Buffaloes Betting Preview: Path to the Championship**

For the Colorado Buffaloes, the equation is straightforward but requires external help: a win against Oklahoma State, combined with victories by Iowa State and Arizona State, along with a BYU loss, would set them up for a Big 12 Championship appearance against Arizona State. Alternatively, wins by Texas Tech, Cincinnati, and Baylor would pivot their championship matchup to include Iowa State.

However, injuries loom large for Colorado. Offensive lineman Phillip Houston is out for the season due to a knee injury, creating vulnerabilities in the Buffaloes’ offensive line. Wide receiver Jimmy Horn’s availability remains uncertain, which could impact Colorado’s offensive firepower. Nevertheless, the Buffaloes face a struggling Oklahoma State defense, providing a prime opportunity to rack up points.

Coach Deion Sanders understands the stakes and will be aiming to rally his team after a lackluster performance last weekend. The Buffaloes have plenty of motivation, but questions about their defensive robustness, especially against the run, persist.

**Statistical Matchup Insights**

The showdown between the Oklahoma State offense and Colorado defense will be critical. Oklahoma State, despite their record, has an offense capable of explosive plays, while Colorado's defense has shown susceptibility to both ground and aerial attacks, evidenced by their issues in recent games.

As Friday's game approaches, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their respective chances—Oklahoma State to salvage pride in a tough season, and Colorado to keep their championship hopes alive amidst an intricate web of playoff permutations.