There are three major indicators to watch for in Oklahoma State’s season opener against Tulsa that will be tells if this season will be as special as some believe it could be. The Cowboys have the best running back in the nation, the best receiver in the Big 12 (possibly in the nation as well), as well as an up and coming quarterback looking to improve from a solid freshman campaign. The trio has brought about conference title aspirations in Stillwater but they’ll need a supporting cast as well. That’s part of what we’ll be looking for on Saturday evening.
The Offensive Line
After a couple of unfortunate dismissals, due to violation of team rules, the offensive line still has to take a step forward this season in order for the team to attain their goals. That should start on Saturday by dominating an opponent they are expected to beat handedly. There should be big holes for Chuba Hubbard as well as lots of time for Spencer Sanders to get the ball to Tylan Wallace and company.
Spencer Sanders
The primary key to Oklahoma State’s offensive success this season is going to be Spencer Sanders. Will he turn the ball over at inopportune moments like we consistently saw last season? Going into his sophomore year, the Cowboy offense will be expecting a more seasoned quarterback at the helm. He needs to be patient, take what the defense gives him and minimize the negative plays.
Transfer Wide Receivers
One final thing to keep an eye on will be transfer wide receivers Dee Anderson and Tay Martin. It will be interesting to see how they fit into this offense. Hopefully, they take some pressure off of Wallace, coming off his ACL injury, and Braydon Johnson to give the Cowboys some additional explosive players in the rotation. The additional pressure that a couple more productive receivers would put on a defense will prove important as the season progresses.
Follow us on Twitter: @SportsHeartland