Tulsa World: OSU: 3 storylines

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OSU: 3 storylines

By BILL HAISTEN, World sports writer
Published: 10/4/2008 2:05 AM
Last Modified: 10/4/2008 3:18 AM

A look at three things to watch in today's Texas A&M-OSU contest.

Let nature take its course

Statistics provide clear definition for this contest. In rushing offense, Oklahoma State leads the nation. Cowboy running backs rank 1-2 in the Big 12 — Kendall Hunter at 154.5 yards per game, Keith Toston at 92.0. OSU averages 6.5 per rush attempt. In rushing defense, Texas A&M is 115th nationally. If winless Army can rush for 280 yards against A&M at Kyle Field, OSU may gig the Aggies for 450 at Boone Pickens Stadium.

Strong third quarter

In each of their past two meetings with Texas A&M, the Cowboys squandered a second-half lead and lost by one point. Last season, OSU had a 17-0 halftime advantage, but went on to lose 24-23. Through four games this season, the third quarter has been Oklahoma State's best quarter (the Cowboys have outscored opponents by a combined total of 59-20). The obvious way to snuff an Aggie upset bid is to remain aggressive — taking that halftime lead and adding two third-quarter touchdowns.

Time of possession

Against Troy, OSU had a time-of-possession advantage of more than 20 minutes. If the Cowboys are destined to beat a highly ranked opponent this season, they can do so only by playing ball-control offense while forcing an occasional turnover on defense. In the 31-point win over Troy, OSU had three defensive takeaways and capitalized with three touchdowns. Against A&M, and especially next week at No. 4 Missouri, controlling the football and forcing turnovers are essential. By BILL HAISTEN, World sports writer

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