SOURCE: New York Times

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OKLAHOMA (8-1, 4-1 BIG 12)

Why they will make the title game: The Sooners lurk in the perfect position, outside the national spotlight, and they still have the Big 12 Championship to gain traction with voters and pollsters. Their brand name could make a difference.

Why they will not: They have a dangerous trip to Lubbock to play Texas Tech in two weeks. They need two teams above them to lose. Kansas or Missouri would be tough opponents in the conference title game.

Odds of making the title game: 9 to 1.

MISSOURI (8-1, 4-1 BIG 12)

Why they will make the title game: Showcase games with Kansas and possibly Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game would allow the Tigers to prove their mettle. They have a good loss (Oklahoma) and a solid out-of-conference win (Illinois).

Why they will not: There are a lot of teams to leap, and not having a winning tradition hurts with perception.

Odds of making the title game: 17 to 1.

WEST VIRGINIA (7-1, 2-1 BIG EAST)

Why they will make the title game: The Mountaineers have four games remaining to boost their numbers and reputation. They have won each of their last three games by more than 25 points.

Why they will not: They have too much ground to cover and even if they win out, their résumé lacks a great win. The Big East is not the kind of league to produce a national title game team this year.

Odds of making the title game: 20 to 1.

KANSAS (9-0, 5-0 BIG 12)

Why they will make the title game: The computers are always kind to undefeated teams. An easy schedule has allowed the Jayhawks to gain confidence.

Why they will not: Their poor out-of-conference schedule should count as a loss. Oklahoma State and Missouri still loom before the Big 12 championship.

Odds of making the title game: 50 to 1.

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