Three Bold Predictions for Oklahoma State in the Texas Bowl
Oklahoma State’s matchup with a former Big 12 foe could be one of the most exciting games of the season.
In their first matchup with Texas A&M since the Texas Bowl in 2019, the Cowboys are searching for a 10-win season for the second time in three years. After a neutral-site loss to Texas in the Big 12 Championship, the Cowboys are looking to rebound in Houston.
Three bold predictions for the Cowboys’ Texas Bowl matchup:
Ollie Gordon goes for 200+ yards
While it is a tall task, the Cowboys are likely to ride their star running back in the last game of the season. Gordon finished the regular season as the nation’s leading rusher and will look to build on his Doak Walker Award campaign with a final signature performance against an SEC opponent.
After announcing his return for the 2024 season, OSU’s star sophomore may be eager to make his mark and get OSU to 10 wins. Getting to 200 will take a phenomenal effort from Gordon and the OSU offensive line.
The Aggies gave up more than 200 yards rushing just once this season in a loss to Tennessee. But given their tumultuous end to the season and the elite player Gordon is, 200 may be well within range on Wednesday.
OSU’s defense forces two turnovers in the second half
This season, OSU’s defense has been opportunistic, giving Gordon and the offense an opportunity to succeed. Those turnovers may be the key to sealing a 10th win for OSU.
Trey Rucker’s strip and recovery sent the Cowboys to the Big 12 Championship. While a situation of that intensity may not occur, something like Cameron Epps’ outburst against Kansas State is on the table.
OSU forced at least two turnovers in seven of 13 games in 2023, and considering defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo’s second-half performances, OSU’s defense could shine in Houston after halftime.
OSU gets a glimpse into the 2024 quarterback battle
Yes, just like every other nonconference game this season, OSU will use three quarterbacks. However, it will not be in the same way.
Alan Bowman will expectedly get a vast majority of the snaps, but bowl games are meant to be fun and be a reward for a season of hard work. So, Garret Rangel could get his shot to make some plays at some point.
And it may be the right time to get Zane Flores at least some game action before next season when he will be battling for the starting spot under center.
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Ivan is a sports media student at Oklahoma State University. He has covered OSU athletics since 2022 and also covers the OKC Thunder for Inside The Thunder and Thunderous Intentions.