The Oklahoma Sooners are 5-1, fresh off a blowout win over Kansas State. Their lone loss came against Texas, an upset few saw coming. While that loss to Texas hurts, it doesn't mean Oklahoma can't make a post-season run. Here are three reasons why Oklahoma can still make the College Football Playoff.
3. Running Game
The Sooners have two talented running backs, and that's not including QB Baker Mayfield (more on him below). Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon could start for a number of teams. Both are averaging over 4.5 yards per carry this season. The duo have combined for five TDs and 653 yards on 141 carries. It's not the most potent running game in the country, but it's good enough to win games in the Big 12.
2. Schedule
OU has three challenging games left this season, assuming it takes care of business against Texas Tech. In their last three games, the Sooners host TCU and travel to Baylor and Oklahoma State. Those won't be easy wins, but if the Sooners win all three, their resume gets a huge boost. Plus, winning out would assure the Sooners of a Big 12 Title. If the Sooners go 11-1 this season, with late season wins over TCU, Baylor and Oklahoma State, the CFP committee will be hard-pressed not to give OU a bid.
1. Baker Mayfield
Mayfield, the former Texas Tech QB, has surpassed nearly all expectations placed on him this season. He looks like a completely different QB from the one who suited up for the Red Raiders in 2013, and that QB was still pretty good. Mayfield is completing 67 percent of his passes for 1,875 yards, 19 TDs and just 3 interceptions. He's also proven to be a dual-threat, racking up 166 yards and four TDs on the ground. Mayfield may not get the hype that TCU QB Trevone Boykin and Baylor QB Seth Russell receive, but Mayfield has proven he can play with them. Don't be surprised if Mayfield ends up leading the Sooners to a College Football Playoff berth.