Just two years ago, Tulsa was minus 3 1/2 at Houston. Texas State also played Houston that season the road. The Bobcats were plus 34 points.

Has Texas State improved that much while Tulsa has gone downhill that much?

The answer is no. The Golden Hurricane also are in a great situation spot here playing at home after being idle last week. Texas State is playing its second straight road game. Only once did the Bobcats have to play consecutive away games last year. They lost 38-21 to Arkansas State as 7 1/2-point 'dogs in the second straight road game last year. This is especially tough for the Bobcats after a tough game at Illini last week where they led 21-6 in the first half.

Forget Texas State's opening win against Arkansas-Pine Bluff. It just skews the Bobcats' statistics, which show a dreadful defense. Tulsa can move the ball well, but has had problems inside the red zone. Those problems should disappear against a Texas State defense that allowed both Navy and Illinois to pile up more than 450 yards. Tulsa averages 427.7 yards on offense.