Can Marcel Lopez Put a Dent in Oklahoma State's Cowboy Invitational?
The upset chance at 133 gives the Cowboy Invitational its edge, but we expect Oklahoma State to take the team title.
Marcel Lopez gives the Cowboy Invitational its best upset question: Can the No. 21 wrestler at 133 disrupt Oklahoma State's plans? For SIU Edwardsville, a title at that weight would be a loud statement. We like the ambition more than the odds.
Jax Forrest holds the No. 1 ranking at 133, and we would back him if that matchup happens. His challenge is turning the biggest ranking advantage into a title. An upset here would put a dent in an otherwise imposing Oklahoma State lineup.
Where Oklahoma State can take control
Sergio Vega enters at No. 1 at 149. We expect him to turn that standing into a weight-class title at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Anything less would give fans an early reason to argue about Oklahoma State's day.
Landon Robideau brings another No. 1 ranking at 157. Our prediction is a title here, too. The pressure comes from how much Oklahoma State should expect from this part of its lineup.
Konner Doucet gives Oklahoma State a No. 1 wrestler at 285. We like him to finish his bracket on top. His weight offers another chance to stretch the team margin.
The team pick leaves room for scrutiny
Cody Merrill sits at No. 2 at 197. We expect him to add another title threat beyond Oklahoma State's top-ranked group. He gives this lineup room to absorb a surprise elsewhere.
Alex Facundo brings a different question at 174. Ranked No. 14, he enters with less separation on paper than Oklahoma State's highest-ranked wrestlers. We want to see whether he can make his bracket another strength.
Our team-title prediction is Oklahoma State. The projected No. 2 team has nine ranked wrestlers, including four at No. 1. We would bet on that depth, even if the upset chance at 133 becomes the day's biggest story.