No. 7 Oklahoma State has earned the nickname “Cardiac Cowboys” over the years, and after Saturday’s game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders, it just makes sense. After trailing 7-0, the Red Raiders managed to recover an onside kick, and it looked like the game was falling apart before it ever really got started. Fortunately for the Cowboys, a flag was thrown, and Texas Tech was called for interference as returner Demarco Jones called for a fair catch.
The calls didn’t really go the Cowboys’ way the rest of the game, but when it came down to it, they were able to dig in and get the job done. In the end, Oklahoma State managed to stay undefeated, moving to 5-0, and staying atop the Big 12.
Spencer Sanders Deserves All the Praise
For the last three-and-a-half seasons, I’ve been a Spencer Sanders fans. He’s had a rough go at times, but I’ve constantly been on his side. I knew that he had the potential to be a great quarterback, and in his senior season, he’s finally showing just how great he can truly be.
The statistics against Texas Tech don’t necessarily show how great he was, but if you watched the game, then you know how truly key he was to the win. Despite completing just 22-of-45 passes, he racked up 297 passing yards and a touchdown. However, it was what he did on the ground—and WHEN he did what he did on the ground—that made the difference in the game.
When the Cowboys needed a play, Spencer Sanders found a way to make one. When the Cowboys needed a first down, Spencer Sanders managed to get one. When the Cowboys looked down and out, Spencer Sanders managed to put the team on his back.
On 17 carries, Sanders gained 56 yards and found his way into the end zone twice. His ability to extend plays and make a way continues to be the key to this Cowboy offense. He’s tough as nails, and he gets the job done. Props to Spencer Sanders and how far he has come over the years.
Dominic Richardson is Severely Underappreciated
The Oklahoma State offensive line is a notable weak spot at times. While they have their shining moments, they have struggled, and that’s understandable when you look at the injuries and inexperience. Meanwhile, Dominic Richardson has struggled at times, and not because of his abilities. Still, he’s managed to make a way when there seemed to be no way.
On 19 carries for the day, Richardson managed 67 yards and a single touchdown, which came at a crucial time in the game.
Regardless of the stats, Dominic Richardson is one tough dude, and his ability to fight for extra yardage has proven to be a life-saver for Oklahoma State at times. This guy deserves so much credit, especially after giving the Cowboys the go-ahead score against Texas Tech.
The Defense Keeps Making a Way
Let’s face it. The Cowboy defense is not what it was a season ago. Still, they’ve managed to find a way to get it done, and that was exactly what they did against Texas Tech.
After surrendering 31 points through the first two-and-a-half quarters, the defense managed to shut it down and stop the Red Raiders the rest of the way.
I’m not sure how they will continue to hold up against the rest of the Big 12’s offenses, but if they can manage to improve just a little bit week after week, then I think this team is good enough to compete with anybody in the country.
Big 12 Championship Preview in Ft. Worth?
Next up for the Cowboys is a tough one on the road against the TCU Horned Frogs. TCU knocked off Kansas on Saturday 38-31 to remain undefeated, and now next weekend’s game has a lot more attention.
The Cowboys and the Horned Frogs are both 5-0 overall and 2-0 in conference play. At this point, they are the favorites to appear in the Big 12 Championship, so this could very well be a preview of that game.
Kickoff for the game is scheduled for 2:30 CT and will be televised on ABC or ESPN.