Calvin Bundage – Noteworthy
LB Calvin Bundage, one of the Big 12’s top tacklers, played with a slight limp in the first half of the Texas Tech defeat on Sept. 22 and seemed slowed by an injury to either his right foot or calf. Bundage recorded two tackles for loss, but coach Mike Gundy admitted the senior wasn’t at full strength.
Dillon Stoner – Noteworthy
WR Dillon Stoner could become more instrumental as an inside receiver in the Oklahoma State offense after teammate Jalen McCleskey, a senior, opted to transfer after four games and take advantage of the new NCAA redshirt rule. McCleskey’s departure lightens the depth the Cowboys have within a key position group. McCleskey ranks sixth all-time in receptions at Oklahoma State and played in 43 career games. Stoner had as many targets (22) as McCleskey through four games.
Jalen McCleskey – Noteworthy
WR Jalen McCleskey, who was supposed to be the top threat among Oklahoma State’s receivers, left the program after four games. The senior apparently is taking advantage of the new NCAA redshirt rule, which allows players to be redshirted if they play in four games or less. McCleskey was a regular, catching 15 passes after posting 50 receptions last year alongside All-American James Washington. It is unknown where McCleskey will transfer. His father, J.J., is in his first season as defensive backs coach at Tulane.
Jordan Brailford – Noteworthy
DE Jordan Brailford has four sacks through four games for an Oklahoma State defense capable of pressuring quarterbacks. For Brailford, any extra attention only makes it easier on DE Jarrell Owens also to flush quarterbacks, so opponents must be careful with blocking schemes designed to limit one pass rusher. Brailford, a junior, has steadily improved throughout his time at Oklahoma State. He doesn’t figure to be an early entrant in the NFL Draft, but a great season could enhance that possibility.
Justice Hill – Noteworthy
RB Justice Hill has been the primary threat in an Oklahoma State rushing attack that averages 224.8 yards, though coach Mike Gundy was critical of the run game in the Texas Tech loss. Hill got only 12 carries and responded with 111 yards. He ranks second among Big 12 rushers, though Oklahoma State has been more willing to also use backups J.D. King and Chuba Hubbard.