Drew Mestemaker, stout second-half defense lead Oklahoma State past UCF
Oklahoma State held Central Florida to seven points in the second half and scored a touchdown on a fumble return to beat the Knights 42-28.
In a close game, Oklahoma State's defense played a crucial role in their 42-28 victory over UCF. Led by defensive stopper Drew Mestemaker, the Cowboys held on to secure the win. With 10:32 left in the game, a fumble recovered by Evan Jackson at the Knights' 28-yard line sparked a 28-yard touchdown run, extending Oklahoma State's lead to 35-21.
Not only did the defense step up, but the offense also performed well, with Drew Mestemaker throwing for 304 yards and two touchdowns, including a crucial late touchdown, and also rushing for a score. The Knights' Keyone Jenkins completed 265 yards and four touchdowns through the air, while Josh Derry added 84 yards on 11 catches.
Oklahoma State's win gave them their fourth straight victory, keeping them atop the Big 12 conference standings.
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