Shocking Oklahoma St vs West Virginia Clash: What to Know

Image Source: FOX Sports

Oklahoma St vs West Virginia is set to deliver an intriguing Big 12 showdown Saturday night, with two confident teams meeting at Mountaineer Field in Morgantown. The Oklahoma State Cowboys enter the conference opener at 2-1, while the West Virginia Mountaineers are unbeaten at 3-0.

The game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET on Saturday, September 26, 2026. FOX Sports reported that the matchup will be televised nationally on FS1, with streaming available through FOX One.

Oklahoma St vs West Virginia: Critical Game Details

• When: Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET
• Where: Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium, Morgantown, West Virginia
• TV: FS1
• Streaming: FOX One
• Betting line: West Virginia favored by 1.5 points

West Virginia has opened the season with an explosive rushing attack, averaging 281.3 rushing yards per game. The Mountaineers are also scoring 40.3 points per contest while allowing 19.3 points. Their ability to control the line of scrimmage could be especially important against an Oklahoma State defense preparing for a mobile quarterback.

Oklahoma State has shown balance through the first three games. The Cowboys average 221.7 rushing yards per game and are giving up only 18.3 points per contest. Their most impressive result came in a 39-31 upset of then-No. 6 Oregon, a victory that gave the team plenty of momentum heading into conference play.

Explosive Quarterbacks Headline the Big 12 Opener

Drew Mestemaker Gives Oklahoma State Versatility

Oklahoma State quarterback Drew Mestemaker enters the matchup after the biggest performance of his young career. Against Oregon, he accounted for 426 total yards and three touchdowns, completing 26 of 43 passes for 317 yards and two scores. He also rushed for 109 yards and a touchdown, including a game-sealing leap into the end zone in the fourth quarter.

Through three games, Mestemaker has completed 75 of 114 passes for 882 yards, eight touchdowns and four interceptions. His mobility gives the Cowboys another way to extend drives, especially if West Virginia pressures him from the opening snap. However, ball security will remain a key storyline after he threw two interceptions against Tulsa in the season opener.

Michael Hawkins Jr. Powers West Virginia’s Unbeaten Start

West Virginia quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. has been one of the most productive dual-threat players in college football during the opening weeks. He has completed 26 of 38 passes for 477 yards and five touchdowns without an interception. On the ground, Hawkins has added 322 yards and six rushing touchdowns on 44 attempts.

His defining performance came in West Virginia’s 38-27 victory over then-No. 25 Virginia. Hawkins threw for 190 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 123 yards and three more scores. That effort earned him Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week honors and established him as the centerpiece of the Mountaineers’ offense.

Playmakers Who Could Change the Game

Oklahoma State wide receiver Justin Bowick has quickly emerged as Mestemaker’s most dangerous target. Bowick has 16 receptions for 281 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 17.6 yards per catch. He recorded nine catches for 178 yards and two touchdowns against Murray State, but his ability to win downfield against West Virginia will be even more valuable.

West Virginia countered with a big-play receiver of its own in DJ Epps. Epps leads the Mountaineers with eight catches for 240 yards and three touchdowns, an eye-catching average of 30 yards per reception. Against Virginia, he caught three passes for 92 yards and both of Hawkins’ passing touchdowns.

Epps’ speed could test an Oklahoma State secondary that allowed Oregon to score 31 points. If the Cowboys cannot limit explosive plays, West Virginia may be able to create an early advantage and force Oklahoma State into a pass-heavy game plan.

What to Watch in Oklahoma St vs West Virginia

The most important battle could be West Virginia’s rushing attack against Oklahoma State’s front seven. The Mountaineers want Hawkins and their running game to dictate the pace, while the Cowboys need to keep the game close enough for Mestemaker and Bowick to make plays.

With West Virginia favored by only 1.5 points, the matchup is expected to be competitive. The result could provide an early statement for either team in the Big 12 race. For Oklahoma State, a road win would build on the Oregon upset. For West Virginia, protecting its undefeated record would confirm that its fast start is more than a short-term surge.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Oklahoma St vs West Virginia?

The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET.

Where will the game be played?

Oklahoma State will visit West Virginia at Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium in Morgantown.

What channel is showing the game?

The matchup will be televised on FS1.

How can fans stream the game?

Fans can stream the contest through FOX One.

Who is favored in the matchup?

West Virginia is listed as a 1.5-point favorite entering the Big 12 opener.