As Kansas prepares for its upcoming matchup against Oklahoma State, head coach Lance Leipold spoke early this week about what promises to be an emotional contest, one filled with deep personal and program ties.
Reuniting with a Familiar Face
The Jayhawks will face a Cowboys team now led defensively by former Kansas defensive coordinator and interim head coach Clint Bowen, who recently took over as Oklahoma State’s interim defensive coordinator. Coach Bowen also grew up in Lawrence right by the area so plenty of ties to watch unfold with these two teams squaring off this weekend. Leipold spoke highly of Bowen and reflected on the connection the two have built over the years.
" "I really respect Clint. He’s an excellent football coach,” Leipold said. “I know in his time, you know, he cares a lot about the University of Kansas and went through a lot of different head coaches and experiences here through the days.”"Kansas HC Lance Leipold
Leipold said his relationship with Bowen goes back to his days at Lawrence High School, when the two first crossed paths. Their families’ ties grew stronger as their sons played on local sports teams together.
Emotions and Familiar Ties
Saturday’s game will carry extra emotion for Bowen, who spent more than two decades with the Jayhawks in various coaching roles before moving on. Facing Kansas, and Leipold in particular, will no doubt be a meaningful moment for him.
The Cowboys also feature another coach with Kansas connections. Doug Meacham, a former Kansas offensive coordinator, has taken over offensive play-calling duties on an interim basis. Leipold said that familiarity only raises the stakes.
They don't plan on taking this Oklahoma State team lightly, expecting everything they have in all facets of the game. While Oklahoma State has yet to record a win this season, Leipold said the Cowboys still have plenty of talent and could view this matchup as an opportunity to earn a much-needed conference victory.
Addressing Offensive Struggles
Beyond the emotional storylines, Leipold also addressed his team’s recent offensive struggles. After starting the season strong on that side of the ball, the Jayhawks have stalled in recent weeks. In Kansas’ last two losses, they’ve been held without a touchdown, managing just a single field goal across both games.
Leipold said the offensive woes stem from multiple factors, but the staff is working tirelessly to find solutions.
"“Obviously we analyze the plays that are being called and revamp what those packages are in those parts of the field,” Leipold said. “We need to continue to do that and be better.”"Kansas HC Lance Leipold
He emphasized that the team isn’t just chalking up the struggles to bad luck or execution but is actively re-evaluating its approach.
Looking Ahead
With emotions running high and both programs looking to get back on track, Saturday’s matchup in Stillwater could prove to be a defining moment for both teams. Kansas needs to get things right and get back in the win column. Oklahoma State needs to find themselves as a team and break a big losing streak to salvage anything left that they can in a down year.