Siaki Ika (NT – Baylor) vs The Oklahoma State Offense
two solo tackles, two assisted tackles
Ika didn’t play poorly against Oklahoma State but it was certainly a step down from the dominant play we’ve come to expect. The Baylor nose tackle got beat up early and missed a couple of series. Once back in, Oklahoma State had already built a multiple-score advantage through the quick passing game. For the run-first defending Ika, this doesn’t present the best opportunity. Baylor struggled to get a pass rush together to affect Cowboys quarterback Spencer Saunders. Oklahoma State continuously stretched the field vertically and horizontally.
Against the run, there were a couple of short yardage flashes from Ika. But, there were few instances to capitalize. While icing the game, Oklahoma State often ran away from the middle of the field. It was apparent that Mike Gundy’s offensive game plan involved taking Ika’s impact out of the game. This was sort of like Aidan Hutchinson’s playoff game against Georgia but to a lesser extent. Ika’s draft stock overall shouldn’t be largely affected by a poor Baylor team defensive performance. He should still be considered one of the top-nose tackle prospects in the 2023 Draft.