Oklahoma State Defense to Determine Cowboys' Ceiling in 2024 College Football Season

The Cowboys' defense is going to have to be stout for Oklahoma State to compete at the highest level in the Big 12.

Oklahoma State could have an incredible 2024 college football season. They could also fall short of reaching the Big 12 title game -- which they've done two times in the last three seasons. The potential is there for a big season, which could result in a College Football Playoff appearance in the new 12-team format.

What do the Cowboys need to reach their potential? The defense has to be consistent. They've got the tools and defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo is entering his second year with the program. Still, the Cowboys struggled with pass defense and fast-paced offenses, which saw the team slip up a few times a season ago.

The offense will be fine. Seventh-year quarterback Alan Bowman will be starting under center for the second year in a row in Stillwater. Ollie Gordon -- the nation's best running back -- will be joining him in the backfield. Mix in a solid corps of wide receivers and a solid, veteran offensive line. The defense, however, remains the biggest question.

Now, with key returners like Collin Oliver, Kendal Daniels and Korie Black returning next season, the Cowboys will have security at all three levels of the defensive field. Bridging the gap between having the talent and having the right scheme is important.

For example, the Cowboys had the No. 122 defensive in the country. They've simply got too much talent to let that slide, and, still, they made the Big 12 title game. With Gordon playing hero ball on offense, the Cowboys were able to find ways to win.

In the new-look Big 12, playing consistent defense and stopping the passing game while not allowing big plays could raise the team's ceiling in a big way. It could be the difference between fighting for a spot in the Big 12 title game or appearing in the College Football Playoffs.

The pressure is there for Nardo and his defense as Oklahoma State could have a special season.

Want to join the discussion? Like All Pokes on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest Cowboys news. You can also meet the team behind the coverage.