Big 12 Defenses Face Key Rushing Tests

West Virginia’s potent rushing attack faces a major test against Arizona, whose defense has limited opponents on the ground; if the Mountaineers cannot run effectively, quarterback Garrett Hawkins may need to carry more of the offense through the air. Kansas, by contrast, has established itself as one of the nation’s strongest defenses, leading the Big 12 in yards allowed and recently recording its first shutout since 2008. Kansas State is looking to correct its run-defense problems after allowing 271 rushing yards to Cincinnati, but faces another difficult challenge against Houston, whose productive ground game and top-ranked third-down offense can keep drives on schedule.