Oklahoma State, Utah Seek Defensive Improvements

Big 12 rivals look to shore up struggling defenses ahead of Saturday matchup

Jan. 31, 2026 at 2:47am

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Both Oklahoma State and Utah have struggled defensively this season, ranking near the bottom of the Big 12 Conference in points allowed per game. The Cowboys and Utes will look to address their defensive woes when they meet on Saturday in Salt Lake City, as both teams aim to turn around their seasons.

Why it matters

Improving their defensive performance is crucial for Oklahoma State and Utah as they try to climb up the Big 12 standings and salvage their seasons. The conference is highly competitive, and teams that can't get stops on defense will have a hard time winning games against the league's top teams.

The details

Oklahoma State ranks second-to-last in the Big 12 in scoring defense, allowing 80.4 points per game. Utah is dead last in the conference, giving up 81.5 points per contest. Both teams were blown out by ranked opponents in their last games, with Oklahoma State falling to No. 9 Iowa State and Utah losing to rival BYU. The Utes allowed BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa to score 43 points, while the Cowboys struggled to contain Iowa State's offense in the first half.

  • Oklahoma State and Utah will face off on Saturday night in Salt Lake City.
  • Oklahoma State lost to No. 9 Iowa State last weekend, while Utah fell to BYU.

The players

Anthony Roy

Oklahoma State's leading scorer, averaging 17 points per game.

Keanu Dawes

Utah's second-leading scorer, averaging 12.4 points and 8.9 rebounds per game.

Terrence Brown

Utah's leading scorer, averaging 22.2 points per game, which ranks third in the Big 12.

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What they’re saying

“We shoot 60 percent from 3 and we still get beat pretty good. The problem is, I think as individuals in a group, you got to take pride in guarding the guy you have; regardless of what scheme we are in, you have to take pride in defense.”

— Alex Jensen, Utah Head Coach

“The team showed in the second half what we can be. But it's a 40-minute game. You've got to be able to do that from the opening tip.”

— Steve Lutz, Oklahoma State Head Coach

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.