• Preview
• Recap
• Bleachers

Oklahoma seeks berth in Big 12 title game

Nov 24, 2007 - 11:34 AM Oklahoma State (6-5) at Oklahoma (9-2) 3:30 pm EST

NORMAN, Oklahoma (Ticker) -- With its hopes for a national championship over, banged-up Oklahoma still has a consolation prize in its sights.

The 10th-ranked Sooners look to clinch a spot in the Big 12 championship on Saturday when they host Oklahoma State in the annual "Bedlam" game.

With a win, Oklahoma will clinch the South Division crown and face either Missouri or Kansas in the Big 12 title contest in San Antonio on December 1.

If Oklahoma (9-2, 5-2 Big 12 South) loses, however, Texas can sneak into the title game with a victory over Texas A&M.

The Sooners' national championship aspirations ended in a 34-27 loss at Texas Tech last week.

Oklahoma will be without leading rusher DeMarco Murray, who dislocated a kneecap while trying to recover an onside kick in the final minute against Texas Tech. Murray has rushed for 764 yards and 13 touchdowns on 127 carries.

The status of quarterback Sam Bradford, who was knocked out of the Texas Tech game with a concussion, is uncertain.

Without Bradford, the national leader in passing efficiency, and Murray, the Sooners' normally potent offense struggled against the Red Raiders.

Oklahoma State (6-5, 4-3 Big 12 South) is coming off a 45-14 rout of Baylor but needs a win to improve its bowl position.

The Cowboys are without leading receiver Adarius Bowman, who is sidelined with a right knee injury. Bowman could return if Oklahoma State qualifies for a bowl game.

Oklahoma has won four straight against Oklahoma State and holds a 78-16-7 lead in the "Bedlam" series.