Wednesday, June 20, 2012
College Football Preview: 11. Oklahoma State Cowboys
11. Oklahoma State Cowboys Returning Starters: 13 Returning Star: CB Brodrick Brown Key Loss: QB Brandon Weeden
Player to Watch: RB Joseph Randle
One of the most dangerous passing attacks last season, the Cowboys lost Brandon Weeden, Justin Blackmon and Josh Cooper the three reasons why it was so dominant. Now, it appears Mike Gundy's team will rely heavily on the ground game this year. Junior back Joseph Randle returns after an under the radar sophomore season. He has speed and is very strong and is an option to pass too out of the backfield. Junior Clint Chelf will likely replace Weeden. He is a dual threat and is arm is getting better. Confidence is an issue for any first-year starter but Chelf will be helped by the fact that Randle can take the pressure off him. Fullback Kyle Staley is underrated and will help Randle significantly. Without huge Blackmon or speedy Josh Cooper the receivers are a lot less limited. Seniors Isaiah Anderson and Tracy Moore will likely be Chelf's top two options. Senior Justin Horton is also a valuable target. The offensive line lost three starters all very valuable. Senior Michael Bowie and senior guard Lane Taylor are the two starters back on the line. Not only are the three starters missing depth is a real issue. The defense will continue to improve under Gundy but it still has weak spots. The line lost both starting ends but is a force up the middle thanks to returning starting tackles Anthony Rogers and Nigel Nicholas. Senior Ryan Robinson will likely start and is experienced. The linebackers aren't very good but has some talent. Junior Shaun Lewis disappointed in his sophomore year after a fantastic freshman season. Junior Caleb Lavey and Alex Elkins also are back. The secondary is a very good overall unit even with the loss of safety Markelle Martin. Senior Brodrick Brown is an All-American and is a coverage master. Many quarterbacks will be forced to throw to the other side where junior Justin Gilbert awaits who may be just as strong as Brown. The special teams is a force thanks to kicker/punter Quinn Sharp who returns for his senior year.
Heisman Hopeful: Joseph Randle
Big 12 Rank: 3rd
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