A Sudden Void at the Helm
Oklahoma State’s offense was thrown into chaos during the loss to Arizona when Zane Flores left the game with an upper‑body injury. The extent of the injury is not yet fully clear, though it was described as “sore” — not one that necessarily ends his season, but enough to force the staff to reassess. Because of that, the Cowboys now face a pivotal quarterback decision that could shape their trajectory in Big 12 play.
Flores had been running in a two‑quarterback system, with Sam Jackson taking snaps in certain packages. But now, with the presumed starter unavailable — at least for the short term — several options emerge. The choices are not simple, and the coaching staff must weigh risk, continuity, and upside.
The Contenders: Jackson, Bowen, or Hejny?
Sam Jackson is perhaps the immediate fallback. He has already been used in the dual‑QBs approach as a change-of-pace option. When Flores exited, Jackson assumed some quarterback duties, not just gadget plays, which suggests the coaches have seen enough in him to entertain a deeper role. His value lies in his experience and adaptability — he could offer a stable bridge until a long‑term answer emerges.
Banks Bowen is another possibility. He entered the game late against Arizona and made his collegiate debut in the fourth quarter. Though untested under full pressure, Bowen is already on the roster and could serve as a developmental option. He might offer fewer guarantees in the near term, but could be part of a longer view if the coaching staff wants to preserve Jackson or avoid re-injuring Flores.
Then there’s Hauss Hejny, who had begun the season as starter before suffering a broken foot in the opener. The injury required surgery, but for weeks there’s been hope he could return sooner than expected. If Hejny is healthy and cleared, he carries the most upside — he was highly regarded before the injury, and there were expectations that he could lead this offense moving forward.
If Hejny returns at full strength, it is likely he becomes the unquestioned starter. But the coaching staff may opt for caution — giving him an extra week to ensure he’s totally ready, rather than rushing him back prematurely.
What Each Option Means for the Offense
If Jackson starts, the Cowboys lean toward a conservative, safe path. It may preserve rhythm in the short term and limit turnovers. But it could also cap the ceiling of what the offense can do.
Bowen, while riskier, gives the staff flexibility. If he shows flashes, they could ride him longer, but there’s more uncertainty early in his development.
Hejny offers the highest potential reward. He was once viewed as a high-upside signal caller, especially in a program hoping to regain momentum. If he can return without limitations, he gives Oklahoma State its best chance to reestablish offensive flow and leadership at the position.
Coaching Decisions Will Matter Most
The staff’s approach will depend heavily on medical evaluations and how much they trust each candidate under center. If Hejny is cleared, the staff may face a tough choice: roll immediately or delay to guarantee full readiness.
If they delay, Jackson or Bowen may get the nod as interim options. The Cowboys may prefer Jackson as a familiar, lower‑risk alternative. But if Hejny returns strongly, it could render that temporary route moot in short order.
The Stakes Are High
Oklahoma State’s offense can’t afford to stall right now. Each remaining game carries more importance than ever in the Big 12. The quarterback decision is not just about this week — it could define how the Cowboys finish the season and whether they regain relevance.
For now, the “who starts” question remains unanswered until Flores’ health is clearer and Hejny’s status is confirmed. But the staff has several logical paths forward — and what they choose could define this season’s narrative.