Three Key Players for Oklahoma State Against UCF
The week is winding down, and it is almost time for some Oklahoma State football. Coming off of a massive Bedlam win last week, the Cowboys look to improve to 8-2 as they travel to Orlando to face UCF. As the game goes on, key players on both sides will begin to make their presence felt. Here are three players who will make the biggest impact for Oklahoma State this Saturday.
Ollie Gordon II - RB
Ollie Gordon is far and away the best player on the roster. He is a game-changer who can singlehandedly drive the Pokes down the field. He has rushed for over 100 yards in six straight games and has gone over 150 yards in three of those six. Expect him to continue to put up strong numbers this week against UCF, who has the 127th-ranked rush defense in the country. It is not a good matchup for the Knights whatsoever. Do not be surprised if Gordon goes for over 200 yards and continues to build on his Heisman-level campaign.
Nick Martin - LB
UCF runs an option-heavy offense, which puts a lot of pressure on the linebackers. If the Cowboys want to keep the Knights in check, Nick Martin will have to be on his A-game. He needs to play smart and make quick decisions in space. Martin comes into this game as the Big 12's leading tackler with 92 total tackles (11.5 TFL).
QB John Rhys Plumlee has a firm understanding of the offense, and he has the speed to beat you to the edge if you are not careful. Oklahoma State's defensive performance rests on Nick Martin's shoulders. If he isn't at his best, it could be a long day for an improving Cowboy defense.
Rashod Owens - WR
Rashod Owens had a big day against Oklahoma last week, catching 10 passes for 136 yards. He'll have to have another big week this time out, as UCF has the top-ranked pass defense in the Big 12. If Oklahoma State can keep the defense off balance with the pass, it'll open up the playbook significantly.
The Cowboys have a massive amount of momentum after last Saturday, and they have a chance to keep it going this week. If they do not slip up, the Pokes have a clear path to the Big 12 Championship game in Arlington.
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