Why Oklahoma will win: The Sooners have featured a powerful rushing attack behind Samaje “Optimus” Perine. Defense, however, will be the reason they’ll prevail in Fort Worth, Texas. This is the first real test for TCU’s new hurry-up offensive attack, but Oklahoma’s swarming front seven and ball-hawking secondary will prove to be too much for TCU quarterback Trevone Boykin. In 13 meetings, the Horned Frogs have never scored more than 20 points against Oklahoma. That doesn’t change Saturday. Oklahoma 29, TCU 17 -- Jake Trotter
Why TCU will keep it close: The Horned Frogs are well-rested and hardly tested, and they're going to make a statement. They're going to score enough points to remind us that this OU team isn't invincible, and TCU's defensive line is stout enough to make Sooners QB Trevor Knight sweat. But OU escapes in a survive-and-advance game and adds another credible win to its playoff résumé. Oklahoma 35, TCU 31 -- Max Olson
Why Baylor will win: Too many things have to go perfectly for Texas to win this game, and not enough will. Baylor's still-underappreciated defense will make the Longhorns one-dimensional by taking away the run and will trick QB Tyrone Swoopes into making the mistakes he's avoided so far. Like last year, Baylor's offensive firepower will break through to win the second half. Baylor 38, Texas 20 -- Max Olson
Why Kansas State will win: The Wildcats rarely beat themselves, and Texas Tech has a bad habit of being its own worst enemy. That’s not a good recipe for an upset, especially in Manhattan, Kansas. And K-State WR Tyler Lockett appears to be returning to his playmaking ways. It could be a tough afternoon for the Red Raiders. Kansas State 35, Texas Tech 21 -- Brandon Chatmon
OTHER UNANIMOUS PICKS
Oklahoma State over Iowa State, 49-20: Which Cowboys receiver will break out in this game? With Daxx Garman under center for OSU, its offense has regained the explosiveness we’ve become accustomed to. Winning the turnover battle could be Iowa State’s only hope. -- Chatmon
West Virginia over Kansas, 45-6: West Virginia will be out for revenge after last season’s debacle in Lawrence. The Mountaineers look like the most improved team in the league, while Kansas looks destined for another trip to the cellar. -- Trotter