2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

BEST VIEWED Shake IN IBOOKS and bake No need for a sidekick here, Blackmon and Weeden are equal parts good for Oklahoma State

PHOTO BY SARAH PHIPPS, THE OKLAHOMAN SARAH BY PHOTO PAGE 1 I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I THE OKLAHOMAN Table of contents

Page 3 I Unlikely coaching Page 8 I The Cowboys’ Page 16 Dynamic duo: Page 24 Dynamic duo: duo anchors OSU staff. dynamic duo on offense Running back Defensive line

ON THE COVER: Oklahoma State’s and . PHOTO BY SARAH PHIPPS, THE OKLAHOMAN

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PRESIDENT EXECUTIVE VICE EDITOR & SPORTS EDITOR ART DIRECTOR PROJECT DESIGNER David Thompson PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT OF NEWS Mike Sherman Todd Pendleton Matthew Clayton Christopher P. Reen Kelly Dyer Fry OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP Unlikely duo anchors OSU staff Bill Young, Joe Wickline a sign of how far OSU football has come

STILLWATER — Bill Young and Joe Wickline are an unlikely duo. Young is the grandfatherly type, always quick with a joke for his players and a smile for anyone passing his way. Wickline is the drill-sergeant sort with a crew cut and an I-just-spent-an-entire-practice- yelling-at-my-guys voice. But these two Oklahoma State assistants are more alike than they seem. They have become successful coaches. They have been sought-after men. Yet, they have shown they are commit- Jenni ted to the Cowboys. Carlson They are a sign of just how far the program has come. There jcarlson@ was a time when assistants like Young and Wickline didn’t stay opubco.com put in Stillwater. Now? COMMENTARY “It is a good deal, and we realize it,” said Young, the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator. “We understand how fortunate we are to be here.” We’ve long heard that kind of talk from OSU assistants. What else are they supposed to say about the school that’s writing their paychecks? But Young and Wickline aren’t just talking Photo by BRYAN TERRY, The Oklahoman about how great their gigs are. They are showing it. Bill Young, above Wickline is considered among the best offensive line coaches in . and Joe Wickline, left, are two differ- He’s developed the likes of Charlie Johnson, Russell Okung, not to mention the Cowboys’ cur- ent kinds of coaches rent crop of standouts. Several programs have made overtures and attempted to hire him away on the field, but off from OSU, including Texas a season ago. the field, they show a strong commit- He said no before the process even started. ment to Oklahoma State. “You think about the greener grass. You think about the bigger place,” said Wickline, whose other stops include his alma mater, Florida, Tennessee and Mississippi. “Stillwater and Okla- homa State, I guess everybody has their own opinions, but to me, it’s good stuff. It’s good for me and my family. “I feel good about coming to work, so why am I going to mess with it?” Photo by JOHN CLANTON, The Oklahoman CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

Young feels the same way. When the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator job came open after the 2008 season, the OSU alum got on the phone After being here, it’s an even right away. Young talked to Joe DeForest about the job better opportunity than I nearly a dozen times. He wanted it badly. thought it was.” “After being here,” Young said, “it’s an even better op- portunity than I thought it was.” BILL YOUNG, shown at right Oklahoma The leadership of the program is solid. The camaraderie State defensive among the coaching staff is strong. The chemistry be- coordinator tween coaches and players is superb. That has led to un- precedented success on the field. “ Those intangibles enhance the tangibles. State-of-the- art facilities. Top-of-the-line amenities. Long-term con- tracts. “The last time I was here, our contracts were up in Janu- ary,” said Young, who was an OSU assistant from 1976-78. “They fired us Dec. 10, and we had a little over two weeks to find a new job.” Young landed at Iowa State, but because he made only $250 a month as a part-time coach, he had to substitute teach just to pay the rent. Is it any wonder multiyear, high-dollar contracts are a big deal to football assistants? Credit Les Miles for starting the trend in Stillwater. Yet for several years, the improved contracts weren’t always enough to keep assistants. Sure, guys like Larry Fedora, Tim Beckman and left to be head coaches. Yes, Karl Dunbar moved on to the NFL. You can under- stand those types of moves. But up-and-comers like Cur- tis Luper and Trooper Taylor made lateral moves. That isn’t happening much anymore. As Young and Wickline have demonstrated, coaches want to be there and want to stay there. “I don’t know what rung of the ladder Oklahoma State was on among coaching jobs,” Wickline said. “But I’ll tell you this — it’s on a higher rung now.”

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OSU schedule analysis BY JOHN HELSLEY, OKLAHOMAN STAFF WRITER 2011 a season of road tests for the Cowboys

Sept. 3 vs. Sept. 8 vs. Arizona Sept. 17 at Tulsa Sept. 24 at Oct. 8 Oct. 15 La.-Lafayette Once an attractive non- This game carries a Texas A&M vs Kansas at Texas The Cowboys conference series, this scare factor, sand- This game is noth- The Jayhawks OSU ended a long are 7-0 all-time matchup lost some wiched between ing shy of momentous have fallen on losing streak at against the Ragin’ shine when the Cow- Arizona and A&M, for the Cowboys when hard times. And Texas a year ago, Cajuns. Win No. boys routed Arizona in with a 9 p.m. kick- considering their un- among a gaunt- but those ’Horns 8 should come last December’s Alamo off against the dan- abashed title hopes. let of rugged road were hardly of easily. ULL has Bowl. Still, the Wildcats gerous Golden Hur- It’s the big game on the games, this will be standard UT a new coach and schedule, maybe across a welcome exit to stock. Will these has been picked have elite offensive skill ricane offense. This players, if no experi- is a veteran TU team the Big 12. It’ll be a the rest area that be any better? to finish near the tough task at Kyle Field, is Boone Pickens The Cowboys still bottom of the Sun enced offensive line- and one that would men. covet an upset. although OSU has won Stadium before figure to have an Belt Conference. the last three meetings. heading back out. edge in talent.

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OSU schedule analysis BY JOHN HELSLEY, OKLAHOMAN STAFF WRITER 2011 a season of road tests for the Cowboys

Oct. 22 at Oct. 29 vs. Nov. 5 vs. Nov. 12 at Nov. 18 at Dec. 3 vs. Missouri Baylor Kansas State Texas Tech Iowa State Oklahoma The Cowboys For all the recent Bill Snyder has The Cowboys won Any late-season In a perfect scenario, stunned a excitement sur- returned to bolster- comfortably in Lub- visit to Ames can the Cowboys and high-ranked rounding the Bears, ing his squad with bock last year. The be dangerous, Sooners meet un- Tigers team in they haven’t fared transfers. And the Red Raiders could be with the chance of beaten with the Big 12 their last trip so well against the Wildcats could be improved in Year 2 of wicked weather. title on the line. It’s a to Columbia. class of the league. improved, having the Tommy Tuber- The Cyclones long and difficult road Mizzou’s OSU rolled them added talent. But ville regime — or not, seem to be on the for OSU. But if they defense should up with ease a year there are QB con- depending on much rise. But are they somehow make it, be stout, but ago. And this one is cerns and a lack of much he drifts away athletic enough this will be the big- the offense has back in Stillwater. playmakers overall. from the spread of- to hang with the gest game in program issues. fense. Pokes? history.

PAGE 6 I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I THE OKLAHOMAN OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP 2011 football schedule

SEPT. 3 vs. La-Lafayette OCT. 22 at Missouri @ Boone Pickens Stadium, 6 p.m. Columbia, Mo., TBA TV: Fox College Sports TV: TBA Radio: Cowboy radio network Radio: Cowboy radio network

SEPT. 8 vs. Arizona OCT. 29 vs. Baylor @ Boone Pickens Stadium, 7 p.m. @ Boone Pickens Stadium, TBA TV: ESPN TV: TBA Radio: Cowboy radio network Radio: Cowboy radio network

SEPT. 17 at Tulsa NOV. 5 vs. Kansas State Tulsa, 9 p.m. @ Boone Pickens Stadium, TBA TV: FSN TV: TBA Radio: Cowboy radio network Radio: Cowboy radio network

SEPT. 24 at Texas A&M NOV. 12 at Texas Tech College Station, Texas; TBA Lubbock, Texas; TBA TV: TBA TV: TBA Radio: Cowboy radio network Radio: Cowboy radio network

OCT. 8 vs. Kansas NOV. 18 at Iowa State @ Boone Pickens Stadium, TBA Ames, Iowa; 8 p.m. TV: TBA TV: ESPN2 Radio: Cowboy radio network Radio: Cowboy radio network

OCT. 15 at Texas DEC. 3 vs. Oklahoma Austin, Texas; TBA @ Boone Pickens Stadium, TBA TV: TBA TV: ABC Radio: Cowboy radio network Radio: Cowboy radio network

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OSU’s dynamic duo No separating OSU’s dynamic duo SEE STORY ON PAGE 9

PHOTO BY SARAH PHIPPS, THE OKLAHOMAN SARAH BY PHOTO THE OKLAHOMAN I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I PAGE 8 OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

BY JOHN HELSLEY, OKLAHOMAN STAFF WRITER

TILLWATER — The coffee shop Duo they most resemble debate begs the unanswerable question: Ricky Bobby and Who’s the more legitimate Cal Naughton Jr. Heisman Trophy candidate, Brandon Weeden or Justin Black- Last season created a mon? magical connection be- tween Weeden and Black- Is it the or the mon. And the relationship ? only blossomed in the offseason, with the two deliverer or touch- becoming quite close. down maker? How close? A dynamic duo for sure, hav- ing emerged a year ago to combat the Will Ferrell and John C. criminally insane outside expectations that Oklahoma State was Reilly close? slipping toward some Big 12 bottom feeder status, Weeden and Blackmon says yes, oh, Blackmon sure carry the look of hero and sidekick. yes. But then, and here we go again, which one’s which? “Shake and bake,” Black- mon said. Another worthy debate. Except, there’s no separating the two. Picking a famous pop Each points to the other, humbly praising his pal’s super skills. culture duo to describe he More importantly, they recognize that they couldn’t — nor would and Weeden, Blackmon want to — do it without the other. went with Ricky Bobby and Cal Naughton Jr., That’s why they sat there together last winter, pledging their al- from the movie Talladega legiance to the Cowboys, and each other, for one more go-round, Nights. putting the NFL on hold. “I’d be the guy who drives “We were trying to figure out what we were going to do, what we the Old Spice car, Cal,” thought was best for ourselves, him and his wife and his family,” Blackmon said. Blackmon said of that much-anticipated decision. That leaves Weeden to fill “It felt great going up there at the press conference knowing we Ferrell’s shoes — and there is a slight resemblance — CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 as Ricky Bobby. In the sports world, Black- mon and Weeden have their favorite duos. For Weeden, it’s Michael Jordan and Scottie Pip- pen. Blackmon prefers Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, and David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez.

– By John Helsley

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were both coming back and we were gong to make another run at another great OSU’s ALL-TIME DUOS season and a championship.” Said Weeden: “It definitely makes me sleep good at night knowing I have him Brandon Weeden and out there to throw it to. It’s comforting.” Justin Blackmon already have teamed for 21 touch- The dynamic duo tag certainly applies, on the field and off. down passes, with anoth- Both Weeden and Blackmon rose from near obscurity a year ago. er hopefully-memorable season to go. Here are the Neither had done much previously, nothing to suggest they’d combine for one of top five dynamic duos, the great pass-and-catch seasons in Cowboys history. regardless of position, in OSU history: Weeden set single-season school records for passing yards (4,277), total offense (4,209), touchdown passes (34), completions (342), attempts (511) and comple- 5. James “Duck” White tion percentage (66.9). & Phillip Dokes, 1974-75: Cornerstone defensive He led the Big 12 and finished third nationally in passing yards, producing four of tackles in an era when the the top seven single-game passing totals in program history. Cowboys played great And his 2010 season included seven 300-yard passing games and at least two defense. touchdown tosses in 11 of the team’s 13 games, earning him the vote for first team 4. & Hart Lee All-Big 12 quarterback by the coaches and the media. Dykes, 1986-88: made everyone Weeden’s go-to guy: Blackmon, who led the nation averaging 148.5 receiving forget how good this yards per game, with his 1,782 yards the sixth-best receiving season in NCAA his- combination was, but they tory. teamed on 28 touchdown He set an NCAA record with 12 straight games of at least 100 yards and a TD passes. catch. 3. Barry Sanders & Thur- His 20 and 111 receptions were school records. man Thomas, 1987: Thomas was an all-Amer- For all that, Blackmon was named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year by the ican tailback in ‘87, Sand- coaches and AP and won the Biletnikoff Award, recognizing the nation’s out- ers an all-American kick standing receiver. returner. Epic NFL players throughout the ‘90s, they Who knew? don’t rank higher here Weeden and Blackmon knew. only because Sanders’ ascent to mythic status “When I first got here and he was third-string quarterback, you could tell he was didn’t occur until after good just by how he was throwing the ball,” Blackmon said. “You could tell he had Thomas was gone. a great arm and was very accurate.” 2. & Rashaun Weeden saw some things, too. Woods, 2001-03: From “I’m not going to lie, when I first saw him, and was still here, I said he the Bedlam ’01 game-win- was the closest thing to Dez Bryant,” Weeden said. “As far as body type, they look ner to the Bedlam blow- out of ’02 to the seven TD identical in pads. catches vs. SMU in ’03, “So body type, ball skills when the ball’s in the air – going up and getting it – I this tandem made history thought if there was anybody on our team or on campus right now that could be – 34 touchdown connec- that special, it would be him. tions. “He just never really had that many opportunities.” 1. Mark Moore & Leslie O’Neal, 1984-85: Believe The opportunities eventually came for both. it or not, OSU once was And a duo was born, delivered on the field and budding into a friendship and even known for defense. Moore expanding to an ambitious social media campaign – Weeden2Blackmon — fur- was a two-time all-Ameri- ther promoting a special connection. can safety, 1985 and 1986, who was known for big “It started really in the spring before last season,” Weeden said, “but mostly over hits, while O’Neal was a that summer, when we’d do our 7-on-7 stuff out there when we were on our own. pass-rushing demon in his “Once we got to fall camp, whenever coach (Dana) Holgorsen would walk by me all-American years of ’84 he’d say, ‘If it was me, I’d throw it to 81.’ He just kept repeating that. And it just and ’85. kind of blossomed. Pretty soon, I was counting my blessings he was on my side.” – By BERRY TRAMEL That’s the way Cowboys fans feel — about them both.

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OSU dynamic duo: JUSTIN BLACKMON AND BRANDON WEEDEN Two heroes on OSU offense

Photo by NATE BILLINGS, The Oklahoman

STILLWATER — The concept of Let the debate begin: he throws that ball, that’s where I’m a dynamic duo conjures up a comic going to be. It’s like he throws the So, who really is the book sort of scenario. ball and I go fetch.” hero? Such scenarios typically call for a OK, Brandon, if Justin’s Weeden: “He’s the hero and I’m hero and sidekick. the sidekick, no question about it. the hero, what about a Batman and Robin. Justin does all the dirty work. He’s costume? the hero. He’s a stud.” “He’d look good in a Green Hornet and Kato. Weeden: cape. He’s got that physique, too. “I would say I’m more Boris and Natasha. OK, maybe not. Blackmon: I can’t see him wearing goggles or of the sidekick. And Brandon is the anything.” So, in the case of OSU’s dynamic super hero. He controls everything. duo, Brandon Weeden and Justin I just do what he tells me to do.” Your turn, Justin, a hero Blackmon, who’s the hero and who’s outfit for Brandon? the sidekick? Your teammate Markelle Martin, seemingly a neu- Blackmon: “He needs the little Cowboys safety Markelle Martin tral observer, makes an Robin mask, with a cape as well. offered his assessment. interesting point. But Robin’s a sidekick. “I would say Blackmon is the hero,” Weeden: “Exactly. That’s per- “Oh, yeah. Well, it Martin said. “Sometimes Weeden Blackmon: fect. There were times last year would have to be like Flash or some- will get into a little bind, a little when nothing was open and I’d just thing. He needs a hat, a cool face- trouble and he can just throw the throw it in his vicinity and he’d be mask.” ball up to Blackmon. And he’ll save a hero and snag it and make a play. the day. Markelle’s right, no doubt about it.” Weeden: “Oh, so my face needs covering up?” “He’s that talented to be that kind Blackmon: “I guess I never of guy — save the offense, save a thought it about it that way. And – By John Helsley drive, save a quarterback. And that’s that is a way to look at it. But Bran- what a hero does, he saves the day.” don is the man in charge. Wherever

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OSU QB dynamic duo: STARTER BRANDON WEEDEN & COACH TODD MONKEN ‘Different because he’s an adult’

STILLWATER — Todd Monken’s Duo they most resemble first season as Oklahoma State’s offensive coordinator has already been made easier by his quarter- Tom Brady and back. Bill Belichick Brandon Weeden’s age and ma- The relationship between turity make him someone that quarterback and coach is criti- Monken, who spent the past four cal, with two bosses (of sorts) seasons with the NFL’s Jacksonville essentially called to share a Jaguars, could easily work with. vision as well as headsets. Like with Brady and Belichick, Weeden, a senior who is 27 years mutual trust and respect is a old, completed 67 percent of his key component in OSU’s pair- passes and threw for 3,391 yards ing of Weeden and Monken. and 27 touchdowns in 2010. Monken offers an NFL ele- How is your relationship ment as a former Jacksonville so far? Jaguars assistant. Weeden leads the rock star life of the Monken: Real good. It’s different BMOC. Yet coming together, because he’s an adult. He’s married; they’re on the same page on a it’s like your buddy is playing quar- mighty big stage. terback. Now we don’t hang out together, but it’s like the NFL, your buddy is playing quarterback. have it some time where you aren’t missing part of a meeting? That’s OSU offensive coordinator and quarter- Weeden: Everything’s really good. backs coach Todd Monken, right, says annoying. One class. Brandon Weeden’s age makes their rela- ... I think he’s going to get me ready tionship a little different than with most to play at the next level. He is so de- What stands out about college and their coaches. tailed. ... He’s pretty sophisticated Monken’s personality? Photo by Nate Billings, The Oklahoman and sometimes he talks over my Weeden: He’s extremely fiery. head, and I have to bring him back He puts a lot of demand on the down to my level. All the terminol- quarterbacks. He expects us to, Offensive coordinator ogy is different. He may call a ‘post sometimes read his mind. ... He’s a Todd Monken on the route’ a ‘take route’ ... I’m thinking, competitive guy that demands a lot. Cowboys quarterbacks: ‘What did he just say?’ But that was When we’re out there, he’s on edge “Obviously, we have a great really the first week. We’re on the all the time — and guys know it — player in Brandon Weeden. same page now. so they don’t want to bust. Which is So it starts with that. He Monken: He’s a guy that obviously a good thing. can make every throw, reads and understands de- older, more mature. ... He is able to How are you guys different? speak his mind — good and bad — fenses, understands what about what he liked and disliked. Weeden: I’m a lot more laid back we want to do. Brandon than he is. He’s intense. In his de- Weeden is a great player. ... He’s supposed to have enough Not a good player, a great confidence in himself that when he fense, he’s in charge of a lot of guys out there, and he demands perfec- player. Clint Chelf is a guy believes in something to tell me. who has come a long way. tions. When we’re in the film room, There are still some things What is annoying we’ll kick back and turn some mu- about Brandon? that with him, I’ve got to sic on and watch film, but I’m like get more comfortable Monken: The annoying thing is that all the time. You can’t really with. And some of that is that when I got here in the spring, get much emotion out of me either me. And with J.W. (Walsh), he had one class. And he had to way. he just needs reps. He’s miss the beginning of meetings be- a young guy who needs cause he had one class. Are you kid- – By Jason Kersey reps.” ding me? One class? And you can’t and Jenni carlson

THE OKLAHOMAN I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I PAGE 13 OSU QB analysis At the top, it doesn’t get much better, with Brandon Weeden back and sup- posedly better in Year 2 of leading the Cowboys offense. All-Big 12 last season, Weeden already owns a slew of school records and directed OSU’s first 11-win season. Backup Clint Chelf is growing trust and confidence in teammates and coaches. Freshman J.W. Walsh could be the QB of the future. – By John Helsley

UNIT GRADE:

WeedenA- should be a Heis- man candidate; Chelf isn’t proven under pressure, but has improved. newsok.com/tailgating OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

OSU RUNNING BACK DYNAMIC DUO: JEREMY SMITH & JOSEPH RANDLE A great singer ... or not?

Oklahoma State’s Jeremy Smith, left, and Joseph Randle will team up to replace in the Cowboy backfield in 2011. Photo by SARAH PHIPPS, The Oklahoman

STILLWATER — Oklahoma State running backs Joseph Randle and Randle: I was like, this dude is Running backs coach Jeremy Smith have a tall task in ripped up. And he drank too much. Jemal Singleton on front of them. the running backs What is the most annoying Replacing a back with the talent about Jeremy? “Very excited about our and accomplishments of Kendall running back position. Hunter isn’t easy, but Randle and Randle: He tries to sing sometime We’ve got two guys com- Smith are more than up for the and it ain’t no good. ing back who have played challenge. significantly. And we’re ex- Smith: I am a great singer. Every- cited to see just how much The Cowboys backfield duo split body knows it. they grow and continue to time in 2010 backing up Hunter, so What is the most annoying thing get better. The more you they’re familiar with the territory about Joe? watch and the more you and familiar with each other. Smith: His rapping skills. His see with Joseph Randle singing skills. He can’t rap at all. and Jeremy Smith and see Do you remember when you the things they’re able to met each other and what your How are you the most alike? do, you’ve got to feel good first impressions were? Randle: We like the same stuff, about where you’re at. And Smith: He was very goofy, very girls... we’ve got some other good outspoken and very funny. players at the position.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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Duo they most resemble Dr. Jeckyll and Mr. Hyde Same position. Same class (sophomores). Same effec- tiveness. Split personality. Randle, so smooth as a player, provides the civilized, yet lethal side to the Cowboys running game, ala the gentle- manly Dr. Jekyll. He glides outside with ease and speed, also catching the ball effort- lessly. Smith’s reckless style brings a beastly element between the tackles, reminiscent of gritty OSU RB analysis Mr. Hyde. There’s some concern in replacing standout Kendall Hunter, yet Joseph Randle (above) and Jeremy Smith (below) each excelled when given op- portunities a year ago. Between the two of them, the production should be there. And Randle, so good as a true freshman in 2010, could be a star. The fullbacks, Kye Staley and David Paulsen, are solid. – By John Helsley

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 You like the same girls? Couldn’t that be a problem? Randle: No, no, no. We don’t like the same girls. We just both like girls. It’s the best thing about col- lege. Smith: On a serious note, I think we’ve both got a good work ethic. UNIT GRADE: He’s a hard worker and I know every day that we are going to go out there and compete against each other and make each other better.

How are you the least alike? Randle: Honestly, I can’t tell you B+Randle and Smith that because we are real similar. are nice fits — and We’ve both got good morals. complementary pieces — Smith: Really, I don’t even know. for OSU’s spread attack.

– By ED GODFREY

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OSU RECEIVER DYNAMIC DUO: TRACY MOORE AND JOSH COOPER ‘I thought he was a girl’

Oklahoma State wide receiver Josh Cooper, left, says he and Tracy Moore are nothing alike. Photo by SARAH PHIPPS, The Oklahoman

STILLWATER — Oklahoma Moore: I thought he was a girl. The State’s Justin Blackmon may get long curly hair got me. I was try- Running backs coach the majority of the headlines for ing to figure out what this girl was on the the Cowboys’ receiving corps, but doing playing football. Or either he Cowboys wide receivers he’ll have plenty of help in 2011. was the kicker. One of the two. “The position is one that’s A lot of that help will come from Cooper: Man, I thought (Tulsa) a strength for our team. It’s inside receivers Tracy Moore and Union, are you serious? Union and got to be one of the best Josh Cooper. Mustang are coming together? corps, I hope, in the coun- What is the most annoying thing try at the end of the year. Moore and Cooper teamed up for about Tracy? I think we’ve got a lot of nearly 1,000 yards receiving and ability. And I think we have six touchdowns in 2010 but should Cooper: He don’t ever shut up. a chance to put ourselves contribute even more in 2011 as That’s one annoying thing. He just there at the end of the sea- defenses continue to key on Black- keeps talking and talking and blab- son and that’s what we’re mon. bering his mouth. striving to do. We’ve got some good leadership and Do you remember the first What is the most annoying all in all, I think we’ve got a time you met each other and thing about Josh? chance to be very good at what your first impressions Moore: He really doesn’t do much the position.” were? that’s annoying. He really doesn’t

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 Duo they most resemble arched back. I can’t even explain it. talk. You got to beat him to talk. On a serious note, what is the That’s annoying to me. If I ask him David and Goliath one trait that you would most a question, he really doesn’t answer Cooper’s physical appearance like to take from each other? me. He just looks at me like I am go- hardly strikes fear in enemy ing to answer my own question. defenses. Average height. Av- Cooper: Probably his strength. erage build, although the guns This guy is a hoss. He takes on those Cooper: What are you talking big ole’ linebackers inside. about? have grown in his years under the watch of strength-guru Moore: I would take all of his ath- Moore: That’s the truth. Rob Glass. And yet, he has a letic ability. When I first got here as knack for the David moments. a freshman, he was the only thing How are you the most alike? Moore, on the other hand, is standing in my way from starting. Moore: I guess we are both con- a hulking physical specimen I said, this guy is not going to start sidered not fast receivers. Because capable of wiping out waves over me but then I saw him play. I (Josh is) not the fastest receiver on of defenders at a time. said, he’s way too athletic. He’s got the team and I’m not the fastest me. either. But I’m not the slowest. other day and I saw him getting a What is the one thing you ad- Cooper: We are nothing alike, manicure and a pedicure. that’s how alike we are. mire most about each other? Cooper: That is so false. You want Moore: We are two completely dif- How are you the least alike? to look at my toenails? I would not ferent people, but when it comes let anybody touch my feet. I defi- down to it I know he’s got my back. I This guy has pigeon-toed Cooper: nitely wouldn’t be getting a pedi- can call on Josh for anything. feet and I don’t. cure or whatever it’s called. He is an all-around He has more of the Barbie You get the last shot, Josh. Cooper: Moore: good dude. We have our fun joking doll look. I got the manly build. What is the oddest thing about Tracy? around with each other and giving each other crap, but overall he is a What is the oddest Cooper: I don’t know. I guess his good dude. thing about Josh? overall appearance. The way he Moore: I went to Wal-Mart the walks with his toes out with his butt – By ED GODFREY

THE OKLAHOMAN I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I PAGE 19 OSU WR analysis In Justin Blackmon, the Cowboys boast the nation’s best receiver (source: Biletnikoff Award). He wrecked enemy game plans devised to stop him, producing in each and every game. This season, his supporting cast should be stronger, with Josh Cooper (bottom left) underrated, Hubert Anyiam (above) healthy and up-and-coming help emerging. – By John Helsley

UNIT GRADE:

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OSU OFFENSIVE LINE DYNAMIC DUO: AND GRANT GARNER ‘We bleed together’

Grant Garner, left, and Levy Adcock are part of a veteran offensive line for Oklahoma State. Photo by SARAH PHIPPS, The Oklahoman

STILLWATER — Oklahoma State returns all five starting offensive linemen from last year’s 11-2 team — left tackle Nick Offensive line coach Joe Wickline Martinez, left guard Jonathan Rush, center Grant Garner, on the offensive line right guard Lane Taylor and right tackle Levy Adcock. “We’ve got a chance. It’s a whole new Seniors Adcock and Garner both burst on the scene in 2010 year. Anybody who thinks it’s not a new and helped anchor a unit that looks to be one of the Cowboys’ year, they haven’t been in the business strongest in 2011. Adcock earned first-team All-Big 12 hon- long. It’s a whole new challenge. One of ors as a junior, and Garner enters 2011 on the watch list for the better things that’s going on with the Rimington Award, awarded each year to the nation’s top us is, the guys who are starting haven’t center. played a lot, so it’s still fresh to them; there’s an innocence to the game. And What is your relationship like? they’re all seniors, and they won’t be play- ing a lot longer. Because of that, it kind of Adcock: We lift together; we practice together; we pretty keeps that ‘I’ve arrived’ entitlement atti- tude to the side.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

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UNIT GRADE:

ThereA may not be a group in the country that works better together.

OSU OL analysis Pegged by many analysts as the best offensive line in the Big 12, the Cowboys return all five starters from a year ago, including Jonathan Rush (above, center). And still, competition rages, giving the positions unrivaled depth. Tackle Levy Adcock is an All-American candidate and center Grant Garner (above, right) is on the Rimington watch list. The group excels at both pass and run blocking. – By John Helsley

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22 Duo they most resemble much do everything together. We’re pretty close since we see each other every single day; I mean, we sweat together and we bleed together. George and Ringo Garner: We get along. ... I think all the linemen have a good chemistry If the Beatles were the Fab together. We really just work well as a team together. Four, and Lennon and Mc- Cartney were the acclaimed What about each other do you envy? songwriting duo, what about Adcock: I envy his work ethic, really. ... I don’t think there’s anything to the other two guys? Exactly. envy about me — except for my hair. That’s the way it is for offen- sive linemen. Like George and Garner: I wish I had his frame — and his hair. Ringo, always in the back- Adcock: He wishes he had my hair? Yeah right. That’s believable. ground, Garner and Adcock provide the rhythm and the beat for the Cowboys’ Helter Is there any play in particular that really stands out to you Skelter attack. about the other guy? Garner: He’s a good player. I think everything he does, he’s good at. Overall, his body of work impresses me. Is there anything embarrassing about the other guy that he wouldn’t want you to say? Adcock: (Laughs). That he’s hairy. Garner: Probably that coach Gundy called him a freak. – By Jason KERSEY

THE OKLAHOMAN I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I PAGE 23 OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

OSU OFFENSIVE LINE DYNAMIC DUO: LEVY ADCOCK AND GRANT GARNER ‘Jamie, you cook like a girl’

Oklahoma State’s Jamie Blatnick, left, and Richetti Jones, right, basically have the same personalities. Photo by SARAH PHIPPS, The Oklahoman

STILLWATER — While they couldn’t come from more different backgrounds, Oklahoma State defensive linemen Richetti Jones and Defensive coordinator Jamie Blatnick sound like an old married couple that’s been together Bill Young on the defensive line for years. “As a group, there’s no question One complains about the other’s snoring. One complains about too we’re getting better every day. many pranks. We’ve got two seniors (Richetti Jones and Jamie Blatnik) in there But the two seniors get along swimmingly on the field and the Cow- who are doing a really good job boys hope it pays dividends this season. of being leaders and teaching and coaching up the younger guys. At Do you remember the first time you met each other and tackle, Nigel Nicholas, gollee, he’s what were your impressions? so much better than he was. At the other tackle, Chris Littlehead Jones: The first time I seen him I thought he was a defensive tackle is doing a much better job. We’ve and he had a very country accent. got Anthony Rogers and James The first time I saw Richetti he was limping around on Castleman, a young freshman is Blatnick: playing better than we thought he crutches with a broke hip and I was wondering who was this guy. would at this time.” What is the most annoying thing about Richetti?

CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

PAGE 24 I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I THE OKLAHOMAN OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

Oklahoma State defensive lineman Jamie Blatnick.

Photo by SARAH PHIPPS, The Oklahoman

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 Duo they most resemble Jamie, he is an outdoorsman. He can go out, play with the dogs and have Blatnick: He snores when he sleeps, extremely loud. He falls Michael and fun. But me, like no. asleep like this (snapping his fingers) and he wakes up just as easy but Sonny Corleone What is the oddest or most peculiar thing about Jamie? then he falls right back to sleep just Smooth and cool, that’s how as fast. We room together, so I will Blatnick rolls, with an under- Jones: That Jamie can cook. I be sleeping and he will start snoring stated Mafia don style that is didn’t know he could cook. He will and I will hit the bed posts or some- just right, befitting of Michael whip up something and I’m like, thing and just try to make a lot of Corleone. Jamie, you cook like a girl. You can noise. Always outrageous, and out- cook. What is the most annoying spoken like Sonny, Jones ma- What is the one thing about thing about Jamie? jors in flamboyance, whether celebrating a sack or cutting each other that you would like Jones: With Jamie, you expect up for the cameras, always to make part of you? the unexpected. He’s a prankster. with a wink. I would like to take his tech- When we go to our hotels or into the Jones: As a tandem, they play off nology sense. He is good on com- locker room and you are sitting next each other marvelously, bring- puters, plays the games all the time. to Jamie, you know to inspect your ing the muscle and packing On any kind of electronic device, he whole area and make sure he didn’t the heat. can figure something out real quick. change anything. You got to watch him. Blatnick: If I could take something from him, I would take his genetics. What way are you guys the Because this man can eat whatever most alike? he wants, sleep as long as he wants Jones: We both love football. We or not sleep, and just be gifted. I both work hard and we strive to be would take that. the best. What do you most admire Blatnick: I think we have a pretty similar sense of humor. Then work most about each other? ethic. We kind of feed off of each boy boots and he wears Air Force Blatnick:: He works hard. He is other in that way. Ones. straightforward. He is a good guy. What way are you the least Jones: He hit it on the nose. We ba- Jones: He is always going to be alike? sically have the same personalities. himself, no matter what is going on or what is happening. Blatnick: I am from the country We get along great but when you and he is from the city. I wear cow- see us together, you know there is a – By ED GODFREY difference. It’s two different worlds.

THE OKLAHOMAN I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I PAGE 25 UNIT GRADE:

C+While the ceiling is Photo by SARAH PHIPPS, higher than recent years, The Oklahoman the unknowns at tackle must play out.

OSU DL analysis The most pressing question mark on this Cowboys team focuses on the defensive tackles, where both starters must be replaced. Coaches are confident they’ll be at least OK, with Nigel Nicholas in line for a breakout and young help emerging. The ends are strong, with Richetti Jones (shown at right) and Jamie Blatnick coming off the best fall camps of their careers.– By John Helsley

PAGE 26 I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I THE OKLAHOMAN OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

OSU LINEBACKER DYNAMIC DUO: CALEB LAVEY & SHAUN LEWIS Match made at Whataburger

Oklahoma State linebackers Caleb Lavey, left, and Shaun Lewis met at Whataburger. Photo by SARAH PHIPPS, The Oklahoman

STILLWATER — Sophomore linebackers Shaun Lewis and Ca- leb Lavey first met in a fast-food restaurant, and this dynamic duo Co-defensive coordinator soon discovered how similar they are in work ethic, leadership and Glenn Spencer on the linebackers love of the game. Lewis, who finished the 2010 season fifth on the “These guys are so green, every day team in tackles, was selected a first-team freshman All-American I’ve got to be on my A game. Teach- by Rivals and the Football Writers Association of America. He also ing technique, attention specific, intercepted three passes as a freshman. assuming they don’t know anything. Lavey’s true freshman season was hampered by an early injury, Don’t assume anything. Now, bam, but he enters 2011 as a strong candidate to succeed Orie Lemon as every day it’s a challenge. You come the Cowboys’ middle linebacker. off the field and watch the film and go, ‘Oh man, we’ve got a long way What were your first impressions of one another? to go. Then you see them make a play and it’s, ‘OK, he’ll be all right for Lewis: I just thought, ‘Man, that’s a big guy.’ We first met ... didn’t us.’ ” we first meet at a Whataburger?

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

THE OKLAHOMAN I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I PAGE 27 OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

UNIT GRADE:

ThereB are athletes across the board, and coaches are optimistic, but inexperience is an issue.

OSU LB analysis As much as Orie Lemon’s production – and that was significant – the Cowboys may miss his leadership more. Justin Gent, who finally thrived as a senior, must be replaced, too. Shaun Lewis(shown above), last year’s rising star, is an anchor. Else- where, the replacements – Alex Elkins, Caleb Lavey, Tyler Johnson, et al – are athletic, but unproven. – By John Helsley

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27 eryone is supposed to be doing, Duo they most resemble and he takes care of his business, Lavey: I think we did first meet which just makes the defense at a Whataburger here in Still- work better. Batman and Robin water. It’s a great place to meet. Lewis, like Batman, always gets his ... Before that, I saw him at a How are you guys most man, often in a punishing and pain- camp once, and thought he was alike, and least alike? ful way. POW! THWACK! Lavey, a la an unbelievable athlete. I was al- Lewis: We both just love foot- Robin, is there for support, some- ready committed, and he wasn’t ball; we come to practice every times saving the day, yet clearly yet, and I thought, ‘We need to day wanting to practice and benefiting from the relationship. get this guy here.’ wanting to get better, so that’s a Maybe Lavey, with all the physical trait we share. Least alike? How attributes, is a leading man in train- What’s one thing about ing. Time will tell. each other are we least alike? that you admire? Lavey: Girls. Lewis: Caleb is a student of the Lewis: Yeah, I like thicker girls. game. He’s gonna know what Caleb likes them a little bit slen- everybody else is supposed to be der. doing, and he’s going to do what he has to do. Anything embarrassing Lavey: Shaun’s leadership. that you’d like to share He takes control over different about each other? situations. He’s an unbelievable Lavey: Shaun can’t sing good. athlete, but he is also a student of the game. He knows what ev- – By Jason KERSEY

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OSU DEFENSIVE BACK DYNAMIC DUO: MARKELLE MARTIN AND BRODRICK BROWN ‘He’s like my little brother’

Markelle Martin, left, and Brodrick Brown are like brothers in the OSU secondary. Photo by SARAH PHIPPS, The Oklahoman

STILLWATER — Oklahoma State’s secondary has plenty of star power with senior safety Markelle Martin and junior Secondary coach Brodrick Brown. Jason Jones on the Cowboys defensive backs: Martin is a three-year starter, the leader in the Cowboy secondary and maybe the hardest hitter on the roster. “It’s a good group. In Markelle Mar- tin and Johnny Thomas, we have And in his first year as a starter, Brown grabbed two two guys who have been three-year and provided an unforgetable highlight-reel moment in the Cow- starters for us. They bring a lot of boys’ Bedlam loss to Oklahoma when he flew out of bounds to de- experience to the table. And both flect an errant pass to linebacker Shaun Lewis, who intercepted it. of them do an outstanding job of Martin and Brown each bring something different to the table, but being leaders. Brodrick Brown really are electric as a pair for the Cowboys. stepped up to the plate and had a good season last year. On the other How would you describe your relationship with one an- side, we’re looking at , other? who played some last year but was still learning the position, because Martin: I would say he’s like my little brother. I know he’s gonna he played quarterback in high take care of his responsibilities over on the other side, but if he school. But in the spring, a light just needs help, I’m coming over there to look after him and knock who- came on.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

THE OKLAHOMAN I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I PAGE 29 OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP UNIT GRADE:

If OSU’sA secondary isn’t the best in the Big 12, the discussion involves them on a very short list.

OSU DB analysis If the front seven holds question marks, the back four bring the answers. And the hits. The strength of the defense, OSU’s secondary is deep and talented, led by ball-hawking safety Markelle Martin, whose playmaking and swagger carries over to the entire defense. Brodrick Brown, Johnny Thomas (shown above), Justin GilbertÖ much to like. – By John Helsley

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29 the ìsmall pitbullî because he has Duo they most resemble ever wants to challenge him a lot of fight and a lot of heart in down. him. Kevin Durant and When I first met him, Brown: Yeah, that’s how I see Brown: Russell Westbrook it. (Points to Martin) This is the I thought, ‘This guy, he’s an man right there. He’s a good athlete.’ First, he was at corner, Steady. Deadly. Consistent and leader, so I follow him. and he always could hit. When I productive. Martin shares those saw him hit at corner, and then traits with Durant, who just gets What’s something about the next year they moved him to it done, night after night, no mat- each other that you envy? safety, and I thought, ‘This man, ter the competition. Brown gets it Martin: His footwork. He’s got he’s gonna come downhill and done with regularity, too, but like really quick feet. He’s kinda like bring the heat.’ I just thought Westbrook, has his spectacular moments of “did-he-just-do-that?” a boxer — just real quick and that he’d be special one day, and he is. flare. Both will wow you, but often physical. in different ways. Brown: I wish I had his height What is something embar- (laughs). Also his mind, his pres- rassing about the other ence of the game. He knows ev- guy? eryone’s responsibilities, where Martin: I’m just gonna say he everyone’s supposed to be. I’ve has three personalities, and I’m got that, too, but he’s just on cue gonna leave it at that. He has with it. three personalities. What were your first im- Brown: (Laughs) OK, OK. I’ll pressions of each other? just say he’s got two personali- Martin: He was small and fast ties — a behind the scenes per- when he first came in. The older sonality. Nah, but it’s good. He’s he got, the more I got to know a great person. I love him, man. him, and we started calling him – By Jason KERSEY

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OSU SPECIAL TEAMS DYNAMIC DUO: & JUSTIN GILBERT ‘Combining and doing our skills’

OSU’s Justin Gilbert, left, and Quinn Sharp say that while they are opposites on the field, they still combine their skills for the Cow- boys’ special teams unit. Photo by SARAH PHIPPS, The Oklahoman

STILLWATER — Oklahoma State has a special kind of dynamic duo in its special teams. Associate head coach Joe DeForest on As as sophomore, punter Quinn Sharp was named a first-team All- the special teams: American by the Football Writers Association of America and was also the first-team All-Big 12 punter. He averaged 46.2 yards per “To be the best in the country — punt with a long of 78 yards. that’s our expectations at Oklaho- ma State. Last year, we finished No. On the flip side, Justin Gilbert was electric as a freshman kick 1 in the Big 12 in our overall rank- returner, bringing back two kickoffs for touchdowns. This season, ings and by Phil Steele’s rankings, Gilbert is expected to contribute more on defense as well. No. 1 in the country. And those are the expectations we have. We have What is practice like between the two of you? some experience at the punter posi- Gilbert: In the beginning, when I first got here, I was way too far tion, the returner position, the kick- up, and the first punt was way over my head. (Laughs) Now I don’t off position, we’ve just got to plug get as close anymore. into eight or nine new pieces at key spots to help get us started in the Sharp: I try to make it easy on him in practice sometimes, try to return game. We feel good about punt it to him, but every now and then I’ll send it over his head or off special teams.”

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THE OKLAHOMAN I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I PAGE 31 OPUBCO COMMUNICATIONS GROUP Oklahoma State special teams UNIT GRADE: star Justin Gilbert

SharpA should shine in his expanded role and the return game only figures to be improved.

OSU Special teams analysis The Cowboys regularly rank among the best special teams units in the Big 12 and nationally. That was the case a year ago, when Phil Steele pegged them at No. 1. Little should change, although Dan Bailey’s reliable placement leg must be replaced. Quinn Sharp will handle all the kicking chores, with great expectations. The return groups are explosive, too. – By John Helsley

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31 try, in my opinion. Duo they most resemble to the right or something. But for Sharp: Basically, him just being a the most part I try to make it easy double threat. You’ve got a lock- Yin and Yang and give him catchable balls. down corner, a defensive guy, and then he can come out there and They exist as polar opposites. score points in our return game On one side, Sharp leads the What were your first impres- blue collar life of punter and sions of one another? and just give you an extra advan- kicker, tage in another phase of the game. Gilbert: I thought it was nice to called to have one of the top punters in the Some teams don’t have that. It’s preserve country to punt to me in practice, really good to have a guy that can the so I could get used to catching give us points and can also be a peace some pretty good deep balls. shutdown guy on defense. by lim- iting Sharp: One of the first practices, How are you guys most special I saw him return a punt, and it alike, and how are you least teams was pretty electric. He came out alike? damage. of the gates and just blew every- Gilbert body out of the water. It was just Gilbert: I run, and he punts. thrives really impressive, and I knew that Sharp: (Laughs), Yeah there’s on such damage, as a feared day we would have a real threat not much to it on that side. Other game-breaking return man, on our hands returning kicks and than him playing defense all the turning the turf into his per- sonal playground while weaving returning punts. time; I don’t do nearly as much as through kicking teams. he does. Just us being on special With the Cowboys, however, What do you most admire teams, combining and doing our they signify the Yin and Yang about each other? skills together. of the nation’s premier special Gilbert: I respect that he’s prob- – By Jason KERSEY teams unit. ably the best punter in the coun-

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OSU DYNAMIC DUO: SOME OF THE BEST BY BERRY TRAMEL, THE OKLAHOMAN

QUARTERBACK and Harold Bailey, 1976 The Cowboys’ only conference title since the Missouri Valley days was won with two quarterbacks. Coach Jim Stanley made Bailey his starter for the Bedlam game, after a 3-2 start, and Weatherbie (shown at right) became an ace reliev- er, sparking multiple rallies. In OSU’s 31-24 Bedlam victory in Norman, Weather- bie came on in the third quarter, with the Cowboys trailing 24-13, and keyed the 18-0 burst. Bailey started the rest of the season, except for the Nebraska game, OSU’s only loss the rest of the season.

RUNNING BACK Thurman Thomas and Barry Sanders, 1987 What? You thought we would pick Terry Miller and Robert Turn- er? Not that Miller and Turner weren’t a load in 1975, when they combined for 2,018 yards (1,026 Miller, 992 Turner). But Thomas and Sanders (shown at right) defy description. Dynamic duo overstates certain cases. This time, it’s not enough. Two of the NFL’s greatest running backs spent two seasons together in Stillwater. Thomas was a ballyhooed recruit out of Fort Bend, Texas, who lived up to the hype. He remains Tailback U.’s all-time leading rusher, with 4,595 yards from 1984-87. Sanders was just a bit player as a 1986 freshman. But in 1987, he rushed for 603 yards as Thomas’ backup and made all-Amer- ican as a kickoff returner, since he led the nation in kickoff return yardage. Thomas rushed for 1,613 yards and made all-American as a tailback. The next year, Sanders produced his epic season, 2,850 yards rushing.

WIDE RECEIVER Adarius Bowman and D’Juan Woods, 2006 Herman Eben in the ‘60s. Hart Lee Dykes in the ‘80s. Rashaun Woods in the ‘00s. Dez Bryant three years ago. Justin Blackmon last autumn. OSU has not been lacking in star receivers. But the best duo might have been none of those playmakers and their variety of sidekicks. In 2006, Bowman (shown at right) caught 60 passes for 1,181 yards and 12 touchdowns, while D’Juan Woods caught 41 passes for 647 yards and five TDs as the Cowboys became an offensive force.

THE OKLAHOMAN I 2011 OKLAHOMA STATE FOOTBALL PREVIEW I PAGE 33 For even more stories on the Cowboys, Sooners, Big 12 and national college football coverage, click below http://newsok.com/footballpreview