Oklahoma State football faces a tall task this weekend as they gear up for a homecoming matchup against a tough, ranked Cincinnati Bearcats squad. With a roster hit by injuries and transfers, the Cowboys are still holding onto belief and with good reason. There’s talent left on this team, and if they can execute on a few key elements, they just might have what it takes to pull off a major upset in front of a home crowd in Stillwater.
Here are three critical keys that could keep Oklahoma State in the game and maybe even help them shock the nation.
1. Control the Game Through Offensive Rhythm and Time of Possession
With dual-threat quarterback Sam Jackson making his second start, the Cowboys have a real chance to take control of the game’s tempo. Jackson’s ability to make plays with both his arm and legs gives the offense an added dimension that OSU needs now more than ever.
The Cowboys’ best defense might be their offense, literally. Controlling the clock and stringing together long, methodical drives will limit Cincinnati’s opportunities and keep a struggling Oklahoma State defense fresh. The more Jackson can lead sustained drives, the more pressure shifts to Cincinnati, especially if OSU can keep the ball away from the Bearcats’ potent offense.
Look for designed quarterback runs, quick passes, and a heavy dose of short-yardage ground plays to eat up the clock and keep the chains moving. If OSU can stay on the field offensively, they can shorten the game and increase their chances of pulling off the upset.
2. Win the Battle on Third Down
For Oklahoma State, converting on third down has been a major struggle all season. The Cowboys have only managed to convert 32 of their 96 third-down attempts which equals out to a mere 33% success rate. That lack of efficiency has killed drives and put an already vulnerable defense in tough positions all season long.
This week, converting on third down isn't just important it's essential. That means staying ahead of the sticks and avoiding third-and-longs. Third-and-short situations will be key to improving that efficiency and keeping drives alive.
Success on third down will keep Jackson in rhythm, the offense on the field, and Cincinnati’s explosive offense on the sideline. If OSU can flip the script in this area, it could be the difference between another loss and a signature win.
3. Limit Big Plays Through the Air
Cincinnati quarterback Brendan Sorsby presents a significant challenge for the Cowboy defense. With 1,448 passing yards and 14 touchdowns on the season, and just one interception, he’s been efficient and explosive all year.
Unfortunately for OSU, the pass defense has been a glaring weakness, giving up nearly 300 yards per game through the air (298.7 to be exact). If the Cowboys are going to stay competitive, they’ll need their secondary to step up in a big way. That means tighter coverage, more pressure up front, and finding a way to rattle Sorsby into mistakes.
Causing confusion and forcing him off his spot could lead to rare turnovers which is something Sorsby hasn’t done often. But if Oklahoma State can disrupt his rhythm and limit the deep shots downfield, they can keep the Bearcats from running away with the game.
Final Thoughts
With homecoming energy surging through Boone Pickens Stadium, this game is more than just another Saturday matchup, it’s a shot at redemption. Oklahoma State has faced adversity all season, but there are still opportunities to rewrite the narrative.
If Sam Jackson settles in and leads long, clock-chewing drives, if the Cowboys can finally find consistency on third down, and if the secondary can rise to the challenge of limiting Sorsby, the upset isn’t just possible—it’s within reach.
The Cowboys have the stage. Now it's time to see if they can take control of the show.