Hogs, OSU: Key numbers to know

By Jerry Meadows

FAYETTEVILLE — What can fans expect this Saturday in Stillwater, OK, when the Cowboys of Oklahoma State take on the Razorbacks of Arkansas?

Oklahoma State’s offense will showcase their Heisman Trophy candidate at running back, Ollie Gordon II. Last year, Gordon led Oklahoma State to a 10-4 record with 1,732 rushing yards. Running the offense will be 7th-year QB Allan Bowman. Last year, Bowman threw for 3,460 yards with 15 TDs, but he also threw 14 ints.

It took four games in 2023 to establish Gordon as the go-to running back. In their first game against Central Arkansas, Gordon ran for 44 yards on seven carries. In the following game against Arizona State, Gordon ran 53 yards on nine carries. Once Gordon was the #1 running back, he had only two subpar performances against South Alabama with 25 yards on 12 carries and against Texas with 34 yards on 13 carries. Film from those two games should give Coach (Travis) Williams some idea of what it will take to slow Gordon down. However, with William’s aggressive defense style, if Gordon gets past Arkansas’ LBs, the DBs will have their hands full trying to bring Gordon down. Success in the running game is vital for Oklahoma State. If Oklahoma State can run the ball, it will open up the passing attack of QB Allan Bowman and receivers De’Zhann Stribling, Rashod Owens, and Brennan Presley. In my opinion, this scenario is essential if Oklahoma State is to win this game. 

For Arkansas, the offense must be able to execute (Bobby) Petrino’s game plan. That means Taylen Green must step up his game. Arkansas cannot turn the ball over and expect to beat the Cowboys. Also, they can’t commit foolish penalties that kill scoring drives. 

Even though the Razorbacks bring a talented group of receivers to the field, they still must have a successful running game if they expect to win. Expectations are high concerning Arkansas’ offensive line. Their first major test will be on Saturday. If predictions pan out concerning the offensive line, Ja’Quinden Jackson will have more rushing yards in Stillwater than last week in Little Rock.

On the defensive side, Oklahoma State must prevent big plays in the passing game. Their front seven brings lots of experience to the defensive side, and Arkansas may find it hard to run the ball. Yet, their secondary was suspect last year. If (Mike) Gundy and his staff have fixed the secondary, that will be good news for the Cowboy’s fans. As with Oklahoma State, if Arkansas can run the ball, it should open up the playbook to allow the Razorbacks to score enough points to win. 

The question is: Whose defense is going to show up on Saturday?Arkansas will and will come home with a victory.

Arkansas  37 

Oklahoma State  23