Passing game may have to carry OSU
Published: 10/4/2009 12:59 PM
Last Modified: 10/4/2009 12:59 PM
With running backs Kendall Hunter, Jeremy Smith and Kye Staley having been injured, and as the offensive line hasn't consistently performed at an effective level, there exists the possibility that Oklahoma State may not lead the Big 12 in rushing for the fourth consecutive season.
The Cowboys currently are fifth in the conference at 202.8 rushing yards per game. That figure, however, does not provide an accurate reflection of OSU's ground performance to date.
To reach the 202.8 mark, the Cowboys needed a 321-yard night against Division I-AA Grambling State.
Against three I-A opponents – two of which are members of Conference USA – the Cowboys averaged only 163 rushing yards. Last season, OSU averaged 246 rushing yards per game overall and 214 in Big 12 play. Even if the Cowboys manage only 140 rushing yards per conference game this season, they may yet become a formidable offense because Zac Robinson's passing arm has become increasingly sharp – he completed 75 percent of his passes against Rice and Grambling – and because the wide receivers group is shaping up nicely.
There is no more complete receiver in college football than Dez Bryant. Josh Cooper has 10 catches, averaging 15.7 yards per reception. Tracy Moore, a 6-foot-2, 235-pound freshman from Union High School, will command more playing time. Justin Blackmon has the potential to be a difference-maker.
And then there is Dameron Fooks, an under-the-radar transfer who arrived in June as a sophomore from Fullerton (Calif.) Community College. The 6-3, 200-pound Fooks was such a late roster addition that his photo is not published in OSU's media guide (and his name is misspelled in his profile). But anyone who saw Fooks' two touchdown receptions against Grambling recognizes that this guy may become an impact Cowboy.
While its ground-game blocking has been inconsistent, OSU's offensive line has pass-blocked very well, allowing only two sacks in four games. Coach Mike Gundy wants a run-pass balance, but if the 2009 Cowboys are going to be factors in the Big 12 South, they may have to throw it often and effectively.
Written by
Bill Haisten
Sports Writer
