As Oklahoma State gears up for a critical Big 12 matchup against the surging Cincinnati Bearcats, there are three standout players the Cowboys need to be especially aware of. With Cincinnati off to a strong 5–1 start, fueled by breakout performances on both sides of the ball, this weekend's contest in Stillwater could be decided by how well OSU handles quarterback Brendan Sorsby, wide receiver Cyrus Allen, and linebacker Jake Golday.
Brendan Sorsby – The Breakout Quarterback
Brendan Sorsby has been one of the biggest surprises in the Big 12 this season, not because he lacked the ability, but because everything is finally starting to click for him. Through six games, Sorsby has thrown for 1,448 yards and 14 touchdowns while tossing just one interception. That level of ball security is impressive for any quarterback, but especially rare at the college level. His numbers aren’t just about volume—they reflect poise, control, and command of the offense.
What makes Sorsby particularly dangerous is that he’s a true dual-threat quarterback. He has the speed and awareness to escape pressure and pick up yards with his legs, which will likely force Oklahoma State’s defense to make some difficult choices. Assigning a spy to contain him could open up passing lanes downfield, while staying in coverage might give him the space to scramble for big gains. No matter how the Cowboys scheme it, Sorsby’s ability to extend plays and avoid mistakes makes him a key player to watch on Saturday.
Cyrus Allen – The Go-To Playmaker
If Brendan Sorsby is the engine of Cincinnati’s offense, then Cyrus Allen is the primary weapon it relies on to do damage. Allen has emerged as Sorsby’s favorite target and currently leads the Bearcats in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches. He’s been a constant threat downfield and a consistent safety valve in tight situations. His chemistry with Sorsby has been evident all season long, and it’s a connection the Bearcats will look to exploit once again against Oklahoma State.
The matchup heavily favors Allen, particularly against a depleted and inconsistent Oklahoma State secondary. The Cowboys have had trouble containing top receivers this season, and Allen has the route-running and burst to take full advantage. If OSU tries to lock him down with extra coverage, it could easily open things up for Cincinnati’s other receivers. But odds are, Sorsby will look Allen’s way early and often, especially in critical moments. If Oklahoma State can’t slow him down, Allen could be in for one of his biggest games of the year.
Jake Golday – The Defensive Anchor
While Sorsby and Allen headline the Bearcats’ offense, linebacker Jake Golday is the heart and soul of their defense. A true leader in every sense, Golday is not only the team's leading tackler with 56 total stops through six games but also the player responsible for aligning the defense and making pre-snap adjustments. Cincinnati trusts him to quarterback the defense, and he’s answered that call with consistently high-level play.
Golday’s impact goes beyond just tackles. He’s already tallied three sacks, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup this season. He has a nose for the football and an ability to disrupt offensive rhythm in multiple ways. With Oklahoma State’s Sam Jackson V making just his second start at quarterback, Golday’s presence in the middle of the field becomes even more critical. He’ll be tasked with reading Jackson, plugging running lanes, and timing blitzes—roles he’s more than capable of handling. As he continues to generate interest from NFL scouts, Golday will be looking to make another statement performance on Saturday.
Final Thoughts
Oklahoma State faces a serious challenge this weekend in trying to contain a well-rounded and confident Cincinnati team. Brendan Sorsby is playing like one of the conference’s top quarterbacks, Cyrus Allen is a game-breaking receiver with a favorable matchup, and Jake Golday is the kind of defensive leader who can wreck a game plan. If the Cowboys want to stay competitive in the Big 12, neutralizing this trio will be at the top of their priority list. But that’s easier said than done against a Bearcats squad playing with confidence and cohesion on both sides of the ball.