Former Oklahoma RB Lands at Oklahoma State for 2024 Season: A Game-Changing Move for the Cowboys’ Rushing Attack

In a surprising and significant development for the Oklahoma State football program, former Oklahoma running back has decided to transfer to their in-state rival for the 2024 college football season. This move not only adds a valuable player to the Cowboys’ backfield but also stirs the rivalry between the two programs, as the once Sooner standout now shifts allegiances to help bolster Oklahoma State’s offense.

The Transfer That Shook the State

The news of a prominent player from the University of Oklahoma (OU) transferring to Oklahoma State (OSU) is an unexpected twist, especially given the intense rivalry between the two schools. Known as the “Bedlam” rivalry, the football games between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State are some of the most heated in college football, often marked by fierce competition and passionate fanbases. The decision by the running back to make the switch is bound to raise eyebrows, adding yet another layer of intrigue to what is already one of the most bitter rivalries in the sport.

For Oklahoma State, landing a former OU player of this caliber represents a major coup for head coach Mike Gundy and his staff. Not only does it provide a boost to the team’s offensive depth, but it also signals a shift in how OSU is approaching their recruitment and talent acquisition moving forward. With transfer portal activity continuing to shape the landscape of college football, OSU has managed to secure a player with significant experience, adding immediate value to the Cowboys’ roster.

Why the Transfer Makes Sense for Both Sides

From the Oklahoma State perspective, this transfer couldn’t have come at a better time. The Cowboys have been looking to upgrade their offensive skill positions, particularly at running back, where consistency and explosiveness have sometimes been lacking in recent years. With a talented but relatively unproven group of running backs, adding a player who has already competed at the highest level of college football could provide the stability and leadership needed to push the offense forward.

Oklahoma State’s offense has been characterized by a balance between the run and pass, with the team often relying on a strong running game to set up their aerial attack. However, injuries and inconsistencies in the backfield have sometimes derailed the Cowboys’ ability to establish a reliable ground game. With the addition of a proven playmaker, OSU hopes to remedy this issue and provide their quarterback with a dependable rushing threat.

On the other hand, the former Oklahoma running back’s decision to transfer makes sense given the changing dynamics within the Sooner program. Oklahoma’s running back room is stacked with talent, and the competition for playing time could be fierce in 2024. With several younger, highly-rated recruits and established veterans in the mix, the player may have felt his path to a starting role at OU would be limited. By transferring to Oklahoma State, he can not only get more playing time but also have the chance to compete for the top spot in the backfield, giving him an opportunity to showcase his skills on a new stage.

Moreover, OSU’s offense, under the leadership of offensive coordinator Kasey Dunn, has often made a strong case for running backs to thrive. The system is designed to get the most out of the running back position, with plenty of opportunities for both inside and outside runs, as well as plays designed to exploit mismatches in space. For the former Sooner, this could be the ideal environment to continue his development and perhaps make a name for himself in a new program.

What the Running Back Brings to Oklahoma State

The incoming transfer brings a wealth of experience to the Oklahoma State backfield. During his time at Oklahoma, the running back accumulated significant playing time, showcasing his ability to handle a heavy workload and contribute in both the running and passing game. He possesses a combination of speed, vision, and power that makes him a dual-threat out of the backfield, capable of breaking off long runs or catching passes out of the backfield. His versatility is one of the key factors that makes him an exciting addition to Oklahoma State’s offense.

One of the most impressive aspects of his game is his ability to read defenses and make quick decisions at the line of scrimmage. This skill allows him to find the creases in the offensive line, making him a dangerous player in short-yardage situations as well as in open-field scenarios. His vision and ability to cut on a dime will give the Cowboys a boost in terms of creating explosive plays out of the backfield.

In addition to his on-field talents, the running back’s leadership and experience will also be invaluable to the younger players in OSU’s backfield. With several rising stars and untested talents on the roster, having a seasoned veteran who has played in big games and handled pressure situations will be key to the development of the entire running back room. Whether he’s starting or serving as a mentor to younger players, his presence on the team will no doubt have a positive impact.

Oklahoma State’s Offensive Scheme: A Perfect Fit

Oklahoma State has long been known for its dynamic offensive schemes, with Mike Gundy’s system emphasizing a balance between the running game and the passing attack. The Cowboys have produced several outstanding running backs over the years, from Kendall Hunter to Justice Hill, and the system has often allowed players to put up impressive individual stats while contributing to a high-scoring offense. With Kasey Dunn at the helm as offensive coordinator, OSU’s offensive scheme is built to give running backs plenty of opportunities to shine.

The addition of the former Oklahoma running back could not come at a better time for OSU. With the team looking to bounce back from a slightly disappointing 2023 campaign, adding a proven weapon to the backfield gives them another dimension to their offense. If the Cowboys can successfully establish a strong rushing game with this new addition, it will open up play-action opportunities for the quarterback, making the entire offense more dangerous and unpredictable.

The Impact on the Bedlam Rivalry

The Bedlam rivalry between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State is one of the fiercest and most closely watched in college football. With the Sooners moving to the SEC in 2024, the rivalry will take on a new level of intensity in what could be the last edition of the rivalry played as part of the Big 12. Having a former OU player don the orange and black of Oklahoma State only adds fuel to the fire.

Fans on both sides of the rivalry will no doubt have strong opinions about this move. For Oklahoma State supporters, the addition of a former Sooner player is a source of pride, as it strengthens their team and provides an opportunity to get one over on their in-state rivals. On the other hand, Oklahoma fans are likely to feel betrayed by the running back’s decision to transfer, especially given the history of the rivalry and the pride associated with wearing the crimson and cream.

Looking Ahead to 2024

As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on how the former Oklahoma

running back integrates into Oklahoma State’s offensive scheme. If he can stay healthy and make an immediate impact, the Cowboys could emerge as one of the Big 12’s most potent offensive teams, with a dangerous rushing attack complementing their explosive passing game. For the running back, this is an opportunity to prove himself in a new environment, taking on a leading role and showing that he can thrive outside of the shadow of his former program.

In the end, this transfer marks the beginning of a new chapter for both the player and the Oklahoma State football program. It is a move that could reshape the backfield for the Cowboys and add an exciting new element to one of college football’s most storied rivalries. As the 2024 season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how this bold decision plays out for both the player and the teams involved.