Oklahoma State Football: Top five names to watch in 2017

Dec 29, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; Oklahoma State players celebrate their win over Colorado Buffaloes at Alamodome. Oklahoma State defeated Colorado 38-8. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 29, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; Oklahoma State players celebrate their win over Colorado Buffaloes at Alamodome. Oklahoma State defeated Colorado 38-8. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
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Sep 17, 2016; Stillwater, OK, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers running back Darrin Hall (22) tackled by Oklahoma State Cowboys defensive end Tralund Webber (89) during the first half at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2016; Stillwater, OK, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers running back Darrin Hall (22) tackled by Oklahoma State Cowboys defensive end Tralund Webber (89) during the first half at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports

3. Tralund Webber

Position: Defensive End

Class: Senior

Predecessor: N/A

Much like Lacy, it’s hard to identify an exact predecessor for Webber. He got limited snaps in 2016 due to competition at the position from Jarrell Owens and Cole Walterscheid. Yet, Webber was second on the Cowboys, only behind Taylor, in sacks, even with limited reps. Webber got to the quarterback six times

Webber got to the quarterback six times and also recorded nine tackles for loss. More impressively, Webber got three pass deflections. Those numbers could be magnified with more starting time for Webber in 2017.

OK State’s defense in 2017 largely relies on the pass rush. That part of the Pokes game lacked consistent effectiveness for much of the 2016 season. A solid season, maybe even double digit sacks, from a player like Webber could give the defense the boost it needs to be one of the best in the Big 12.

Schedule