OKLAHOMA STATE COWBOYS O:9 D:5

The Cowboys finished last in the Big 12 South last season for the first time, and suffered a number of demoralizing defeats along the way. However, with 14 starters back from last year’s very young team, HC Mike Gundy’s squad looks to be in better shape heading into 2006. The offense returns nine starters overall, and should flourish in the second year of the new system. QB Bobby Reid is back, and should put forth a much better performance knowing full well the job is his. RB Mike Hamilton returns off his 960+ yard performance a year ago, and looks to be the next 1000-yard rusher. The WR corps also boasts a ton more experience and should see its statistics drastically improve, while the O-Line has better talent and depth. The offense won’t put up numbers like it did a few year’s ago, but look for it to better the 20 PPG it averaged a year ago. The defense was gouged a year ago to the tune of 31 PPG and 418 YPG. They were very green a year ago, but have plenty more depth and experience in every facet and should be a much more formidable unit. Look for the special teams to go from a weakness to a strength this season as both kickers return.