SHOCKING NEWS: Mike Gundy’s Oklahoma State Cowboys Capitalize on Rough Season with Eligibili… view details
The 2023 college football season was one filled with twists, turns, and growing pains for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Under the seasoned leadership of head coach Mike Gundy, the team faced a challenging slate of games, inconsistent performances, and a host of questions about their future trajectory. However, a silver lining emerged from the chaos: some players are now leveraging the NCAA’s eligibility rules to extend their collegiate careers. This unexpected twist might just be the spark Oklahoma State needs to recalibrate and rebuild for the future.
Oklahoma State’s Rough 2023 Season: A Quick Recap
The Cowboys entered the 2023 season with cautious optimism. Expectations were high after Gundy’s successful tenure, including a Big 12 championship in 2021 and consistent bowl appearances. Yet, the Cowboys fell short of their usual standards in 2023, finishing with a middling record that left fans frustrated and analysts perplexed.
Several factors contributed to the team’s struggles:
- Roster Turnover: Oklahoma State saw significant departures of key players to graduation, the NFL Draft, and the transfer portal. These losses left gaps in experience and leadership on both sides of the ball.
- Quarterback Carousel: The Cowboys’ quarterback situation became a revolving door. Injuries and inconsistent play led to frequent changes, disrupting offensive continuity.
- Defensive Woes: The defense, once a strong point for the Cowboys, struggled to contain high-powered offenses in the Big 12, leading to several high-scoring losses.
- Injuries: A rash of injuries to starters further compounded the team’s challenges, forcing younger, less experienced players to step into starting roles prematurely.
Despite these setbacks, Mike Gundy’s squad showed flashes of potential. Several young players gained valuable experience, and the team’s resilience in the face of adversity demonstrated a never-quit attitude.
NCAA Eligibility Rules: A Timely Lifeline
In recent years, the NCAA has introduced more flexible eligibility rules, partly in response to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Athletes were granted an additional year of eligibility, and redshirt policies allowed players to appear in up to four games without burning a year of eligibility. These measures have provided athletes with more opportunities to extend their college careers, a trend that Oklahoma State is now benefiting from.
The Cowboys’ rough season created a unique situation where several players, particularly those who were injured or saw limited playing time, became eligible for an additional year. This development has allowed key contributors and promising talents to return for another season, giving Oklahoma State a chance to rebuild with a more experienced and cohesive roster.
Key Players Opting to Return
Among the players taking advantage of extended eligibility, a few stand out as potential game-changers for the Cowboys in 2024:
- Brendan Presley (Wide Receiver): Presley has been a reliable weapon in the Cowboys’ offense, known for his speed and ability to make big plays. A return for another year gives Oklahoma State a veteran presence in the receiving corps and a potential leader for younger players.
- Collin Oliver (Linebacker): Oliver’s decision to use his extra year of eligibility is a boon for the defense. His pass-rushing ability and knack for making clutch plays will be crucial as the Cowboys look to tighten up their defensive unit.
- Offensive Line Veterans: The offensive line faced heavy scrutiny in 2023 due to inconsistent play. With several linemen returning for an additional year, the unit has a chance to develop chemistry and provide better protection for the quarterback.
- Young Players with Upside: Several underclassmen who saw limited action due to injuries are also expected to return, adding depth and competition across various positions.
Mike Gundy’s Perspective: Embracing the Challenge
Mike Gundy, now one of the longest-tenured coaches in college football, has built a reputation for adaptability and resilience. Despite the frustrations of 2023, Gundy remains optimistic about the program’s future. In recent interviews, he has emphasized the importance of using the past season as a learning experience and expressed confidence in his players’ ability to bounce back.
“This season was tough, no doubt about it,” Gundy remarked during a post-season press conference. “But tough times reveal character. We’ve got a group of guys who are hungry to prove themselves, and having the opportunity to bring some of them back for another year is a huge plus.”
Rebuilding for 2024: A Strategic Approach
With a more experienced roster and a renewed sense of purpose, Oklahoma State is poised to make significant strides in 2024. Here’s what to expect as the Cowboys prepare for the next chapter:
- Quarterback Stability: Establishing a clear starting quarterback will be a priority. Whether through player development or the transfer portal, the Cowboys must solidify this position to improve offensive consistency.
- Defensive Adjustments: Gundy and his staff are likely to make schematic changes to address the defensive shortcomings from 2023. With key players returning and potential additions through recruiting, the defense could see marked improvement.
- Recruiting and Transfer Portal: The Cowboys have already been active in the recruiting scene, targeting high school standouts and experienced players in the transfer portal. These efforts will be crucial in filling gaps and adding depth to the roster.
- Leadership Development: With veterans like Presley and Oliver returning, leadership within the locker room will be vital. These players can mentor younger teammates and set the tone for a more disciplined and determined team culture.
- Schedule and Preparation: Oklahoma State’s 2024 schedule will undoubtedly present challenges, but the team’s experience in close games and high-pressure situations could prove invaluable. The Cowboys must approach the offseason with a renewed focus on conditioning, film study, and game planning.
Fan Reactions: A Mixed Bag
The news of players returning for an additional year has elicited a range of reactions from Oklahoma State fans. Some are thrilled by the prospect of building a stronger team, while others remain skeptical about the program’s ability to compete at the highest level.
On social media, fans have voiced both hope and frustration:
- Optimistic Fans: “This could be the turnaround we need! Having veterans back will make a huge difference.”
- Skeptics: “We’ve heard this before. Show me results on the field.”
- Balanced Views: “I’m excited about the players coming back, but Gundy and his staff need to make some serious adjustments.”
A New Era for Oklahoma State?
The 2024 season represents a pivotal moment for Mike Gundy and the Cowboys. With a blend of returning talent, new recruits, and lessons learned from a challenging year, Oklahoma State has the potential to reestablish itself as a contender in the Big 12. Success won’t come overnight, but the pieces are in place for a brighter future.
For now, the focus remains on preparation and growth. As Gundy often says, “It’s not about how you start; it’s about how you finish.” If the Cowboys can channel their struggles into motivation, the 2024 season could be one to remember. Fans will be watching closely, hoping for a resurgence that shocks the college football world—and proves that Oklahoma State is far from finished.V
