Game Day Thoughts – Week 3
Published: 9/12/2008 2:44 PM
Last Modified: 9/12/2008 2:44 PM
Oklahoma State should utilize the Bachman-Turner Overdrive song as its approach to Saturday's game with Missouri State.
The Cowboys need to come out ready so they can be "Takin' Care of Business" all afternoon against the Bears.
This contest is a classic mismatch. OSU's high-octane offense looks to be functioning fine two games into the season. Missouri State, a NCAA Division I-AA team, is coming off a season-opening loss to NCAA Division II Washburn.
However, weather can be the great equalizer. The weather forecast is not good for Stillwater on Saturday. Even moving the kickoff up six hours likely will not dodge raindrops. A mishandled snap here, a slip by a defensive player there and an unforeseen bobble can quickly make this anticipated mismatch into a closer than anticipated contest.
Three things I'll be watching closely on a soggy Saturday:
***Protecting the football: Remember the last time OSU had to deal with wet conditions? Last year at Troy, the Cowboys turned the ball over five times in that humbling 41-23 loss. Ball security will be emphasized all afternoon.
***Taking away the football: This is an area that could become a concern in the coming weeks. OSU only has two takeaways through two games. The conditions and opponent are right to start improving this stat. As the season progresses, the defense will need to come up with a few takeaways each week.
***Run, baby, run: With a strong offensive line and three capable running backs, OSU should be able to run the ball consistently all afternoon and take care of business successfully.
Prediction: OSU 48, Missouri State 6. The starters get enough work in, the reserves get some quality work in, and the Cowboys head into the off week 3-0.
---Matt Doyle
Written by
Bill Haisten
Sports Writer
