Oklahoma State University Athletics
2013 Final Notes and Stats
January 10, 2014 | Cowboy Football
The Basics
The Oklahoma State football team finished 2013 with a 10-3 overall record and a 7-2 mark in Big 12 play. The Cowboys finished second in the Big 12 Conference standings.
In The Polls
Oklahoma State finished the season ranked No. 17 in the Associated Press poll, No. 17 in the USA Today Coaches Poll and No. 13 in the BCS Standings.
The Season in a Sentence
For the first time, Oklahoma State was picked to win the Big 12 in the preseason and led by a much-improved defense and an offense that was reinvigorated after midseason personnel moves, the Cowboys stormed to a 7-1 record in league play and were in position to secure their second Big 12 title in three years after steamrolling No. 3 Baylor, but an upset loss to Oklahoma on the final day of the regular season dashed OSU's chances.
Strong on Both Sides of the Ball
Oklahoma State is one of only four teams in the country to finish 2013 ranked in the top 20 nationally in both scoring offense and scoring defense. The other three were Florida State, Alabama and Oregon.
Defensive Turnaround a Primary Storyline
Playing under the guidance of first-year defensive coordinator Glenn Spencer, the play of the Cowboys' senior-driven defense was at the core of OSU's success in 2013. The Cowboys finished 2013 ranked in the top 25 nationally in scoring defense (19th), turnovers gained (fifth), passes intercepted (third), red zone defense (seventh), pass efficiency defense (sixth), tackles for loss (16th) and third-down conversion percentage defense (seventh) just one year after ranking in the top 25 nationally in only one of those categories (tackles for loss - 25th in 2012). A very good argument can be made that OSU had the Big 12's best overall defense in 2013, as the Cowboys led the league in scoring defense, turnovers gained, pass defense efficiency, third-down conversion percentage defense and red zone defense. Early in the season, the team had to rely heavily on its defense to win games and Spencer's unit delivered, limiting two of OSU's first three opponents without a touchdown. Spencer's scheme against Baylor helped the Cowboys force three turnovers and limit the top-ranked offense in the nation to 44 points and 231 yards below its season averages as part of OSU's win over the No. 3 Bears.
Seniority
Experience was a key factor in Oklahoma State's defensive success in 2013. The Cowboy defense boasted eight senior starters, plus an additional three seniors who factored heavily into the playing time rotation. In 2013, OSU seniors combined to make 78 percent of the team's tackles and produce 73 percent of the team's turnovers, either by interception or by fumble recovery. Of the 15 fumbles forced by the Cowboy defense in 2013, 13 were forced by seniors. Additionally, 78 percent of all pass breakups by OSU were made by seniors.
Key Moment
Midway through the season, the OSU coaches shook up the offense by inserting Clint Chelf as the starting quarterback, Desmond Roland as the starting running back and moving Parker Grahamfrom left tackle to right guard. Things picked up immediately for the offense, as Chelf ended up finishing eighth in the nation in adjusted QBR, Roland had seven rushing touchdowns in his first two games as the starter and Graham spearheaded an offensive line that turned around the fortunes of OSU's rushing attack.
Key Statistic - Turnovers
Forcing turnovers has been at the core of Oklahoma State's defensive identity for years. In fact, OSU leads the nation with 163 turnovers forced from 2009 through the present. The Cowboys led the nation in takeaways as part of their Big 12 championship season of 2011, but slipped in that area in 2012. Turnovers were back to being a significant factor for OSU in 2013, as the Cowboys led the Big 12 and ranked fourth nationally with a +1.2 turnover margin. The Pokes were third nationally with 21 passes intercepted and were fifth nationally with 33 turnovers gained. OSU lost only five fumbles on the year - a mark that ranked seventh in the nation.
Oklahoma State and the Turnover
Why are turnovers such a focal point at Oklahoma State? Because during the Mike Gundyera (2005-present), the Cowboys are 19-0 when they don't commit a turnover in a game and are 47-5 when winning the turnover battle. Dating back to the 2008 season, the Cowboys have won 34 of their last 35 games when winning the turnover battle.
Gundy, Cowboys Take Down Another Top-10 Team
The signature win of the 2013 season was a 49-17 wipeout of No. 3 Baylor on Nov. 23. ESPN's popular College GameDay program was in Stillwater for a game that was hyped as the national game of the week and the Cowboys were up to the challenge of playing on the big stage. Playing in front of the first sellout crowd in Boone Pickens Stadium history, Oklahoma State's defense forced three turnovers and held Baylor 44 points and 231 yards below its season averages in recording one of the most lopsided wins ever over a team ranked in the top three of the Associated Press poll. Quarterback Clint Chelfearned national player of the week honors after completing 19-of-25 passes for 370 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions. He added a 48-yard reception that set up a touchdown and he rushed for a score as well. It was OSU's fourth win over a top-10 team and its third over a top-five team since 2008.
Orange November
Oklahoma State went 4-0 in the month of November, securing an undefeated November for the first time since the 1945 team went 9-0 and won the Sugar Bowl. OSU's November produced wins over No. 3 Baylor, No. 15 Texas Tech in Lubbock, No. 23 Texas in Austin and Kansas. Some notes from Orange November:
• Three of OSU's four wins were over ranked teams, with two of those coming on the road.
• The Cowboys outscored their four November foes, 181-70, for an average November score of 45-18. Again, three of their four opponents were ranked.
• The Cowboys scored touchdowns on 18 of their 19 trips into the red zone and limited their opponents to touchdowns on only six of 17 trips into the red zone.
• OSU forced 10 turnovers and committed only three.
Gilbert a Consensus All-American
Oklahoma State senior cornerback Justin Gilbertwas a 2013 consensus All-American with honors from the FWAA, Walter Camp and the Associated Press and was one of three finalists for the 2013 Jim Thorpe Award, which is given annually to the most outstanding defensive back in college football. Gilbert finished with seven interceptions, a mark that leads the Big 12 and ranked third nationally. He had two pick-sixes on the year, coming at Iowa State and at Texas. Additionally, he had three non-offensive touchdowns in 2013; a 31-yard interception return at Iowa State, a 100-yard kickoff return vs. Kansas and a 43-yard interception return at Texas. He finished his career with eight non-offensive touchdowns. The list:
2010 - 93 yd kickoff return vs. Baylor
2010 - 89 yd kickoff return vs. Oklahoma
2011 - 96 yd kickoff return at Tulsa
2011 - 100 yd kickoff return at Texas
2012 - 96 yd kickoff return vs. West Virginia
2013 - 31 yd interception return at Iowa State
2013 - 100 yd kickoff return vs. Kansas
2013 - 43 yd interception return at Texas
Gilbert Fell Just Short of NCAA Career Record
Oklahoma State cornerback Justin Gilbertfinished as the Big 12 career record-holder in kickoff return touchdowns with six and was just one kickoff return touchdown shy of the NCAA career record of seven, held jointly by Clemson's C.J. Spiller (2006-09) and Houston's Tyron Carrier (2008-11).
Cowboys Place League-High 11 Players On All-Big 12 Teams
Oklahoma State earned a conference-best 11 spots on the 2013 All-Big 12 team as selected by the league's 10 head coaches, who are not permitted to vote for their own players. OSU's first team honorees included senior offensive lineman Parker Graham, senior defensive tackle Calvin Barnett, senior linebacker Shaun Lewis and senior cornerback Justin Gilbert. The Cowboys' second team selections included senior quarterback Clint Chelf, senior fullback Kye Staley, junior Josh Stewart (selected as a receiver and as a returner), senior defensive end Tyler Johnson, senior linebacker Caleb Lavey and senior safety Daytawion Lowe. Oklahoma State tied Baylor with the most athletes honored with 10, but Stewart's honors as a receiver and returner gave the Cowboys the most selections in the league with 11. OSU also had the most defensive selections with six, while Baylor was the next closest with four. OSU's five offensive spots were second only to Baylor's six.
Oklahoma State Breaks One Big 12 Record, Ties Another
Nine different OSU players combined for 12 Big 12 Player of the Week honors in 2013, setting a league record for most players from a single team to earn Big 12 weekly honors during the course of a season and matching the 2000 Oklahoma team's conference record for most total honorees from one team in a season.
Oklahoma State Players to Earn Big 12 Weekly Honors in 2013
Sept. 2 - Caleb Lavey, Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week
Sept. 9 - J.W. Walsh, Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week
Sept. 16 - Josh Stewart, Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week
Oct. 7 - Shaun Lewis, Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week
Oct. 7 - Ben Grogan, Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week
Oct. 21 - Josh Stewart, Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week
Oct. 28 - Desmond Roland, Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week
Nov. 4 - Clint Chelf, Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week
Nov. 11 - Justin Gilbert, Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week
Nov. 18 - Justin Gilbert, Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week
Nov. 25 - Clint Chelf, Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week
Nov. 25 - Daytawion Lowe, Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week
Senior Salute
Oklahoma State's senior class of 2013 compiled a 41-11 record, matching the senior class of 2011 as the winningest in school history. A look at each member of the class:
• Calvin Barnett, DT - Two-time first-team All-Big 12 performer.
• Clint Chelf, QB - 2012 Heart of Dallas Bowl MVP and central figure in Oklahoma State's offensive turnaround in 2013.
• Davidell Collins, DL - Played several key snaps each of the past three years.
• Zack Craig, S - Special teams standout with three blocked punts and one blocked punt return for a touchdown in his career. Saw extensive action at safety in 2013.
• Shamiel Gary, SS - One of the team's leading tacklers each of the past two years.
• Justin Gilbert, CB - Finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award given to the nation's top defensive back. 2013 consensus All-American.
• John Goodlett, WR - One-time walk-on who earned a scholarship through hard work, character and performance.
• Parker Graham, OL - Started 31 games in his career. 2013 first team All-Big 12.
• Deion Imade, LB - 2013 team captain. Special teams standout who played both safety and linebacker during his career.
• Blake Jackson, WR - Injured most of 2013, but led the 2012 squad with 19.9 yards per reception.
• Tyler Johnson, DE - Became a significant factor on the OSU defensive line at the end of 2012 and turned in an All-Big 12-caliber year in 2013.
• Caleb Lavey, LB - Team captain and one of OSU's clear leaders. 2013 first team All-Big 12.
• Shaun Lewis, LB - Team captain. Earned a starting spot midway through his freshman year and started every game since. 2013 first team All-Big 12.
• Daytawion Lowe, FS - Strong leader on the team. 2013 second-team All-Big 12 honoree. Finished with 269 career tackles.
• Joe Mitchell, LB - Athletic, productive contributor on special teams and at linebacker throughout his career.
• Charlie Moore, WR - Made 11 touchdown catches in his last two years. Produced several memorable moments in big games.
• Tracy Moore, WR - Led the 2013 team with six touchdown receptions and 738 receiving yards. An important cog in one of America's best offenses since 2010.
• Taylor Moss, WR - Valued member of the scout team who lost 2013 to injury.
• Tyler Patmon, CB - Perhaps the most valuable addition to the team in 2013. Three-year starter at Kansas who transferred to OSU after earning his degree.
• Michael Reichenstein, P - A steady performer as the team's holder on placements his last two seasons.
• Nick Rockwell, WR - Significant contributor on special teams known for his outstanding attitude.
• Anthony Rogers, DT - Showed noticeable improvement during his career and played key snaps on the interior of the defensive line.
• Connor Sinko, LS - Never had an errant snap on placements in three years.
• Jeremy Smith, RB - Another key performer in one of the nation's most explosive offenses since 2010. Ranks sixth on OSU's career rushing touchdowns list.
• Kye Staley, FB - Former top high school player in the state of Oklahoma who overcame what many thought would be a career-ending injury to become a three-time All-Big 12 performer.
• Steve Sumpter, LB - Transfer from Missouri Southern who cracked into the travel squad in 2013.
• Andrew Suter, LS - Never had an errant snap on punts in three and a half years. Recovered a fumble in the 2010 Alamo Bowl win over Arizona.
• Brandon Webb, OL - Earned a spot in the starting lineup midway through 2012 and started every game since.
Many Happy Returns Result in Non-Offensive Touchdowns
Oklahoma State scored a touchdown on a kickoff return (Justin Gilbert vs. Kansas), two punt returns (both by Josh Stewart), two interception returns (both by Gilbert) and two fumble returns (Tyler Johnson at Iowa State and Tyler Patmonvs. Baylor) in 2013. The Cowboys have scored 25 non-offensive touchdowns since the start of the 2010 season.
Oklahoma State's Non-Offensive Touchdowns Since 2010
2010 - Justin Blackmon 7 yd blocked punt return vs. Washington State
2010 - Josh Cooper 66 yd punt return vs. Troy
2010 - James Thomas 63 yd fumble recovery vs. Texas A&M
2010 - Johnny Thomas 26 yd interception return at Kansas State
2010 - Justin Gilbert 93 yd kickoff return vs. Baylor
2010 - Michael Harrison 5 yd blocked punt return at Kansas
2010 - Shaun Lewis 52 yd interception return vs. Oklahoma
2010 - Justin Gilbert 89 yd kickoff return vs. Oklahoma
2010 - Markelle Martin 61 yd interception return vs. Arizona
2011 - Justin Gilbert 96 yd kickoff return at Tulsa
2011 - Justin Gilbert 100 yd kickoff return at Texas
2011 - Josh Stewart 3 yd fumble recovery at Texas Tech
2011 - Shaun Lewis 70 yd interception return at Iowa State
2011 - Richetti Jones 5 yd fumble recovery vs. Oklahoma
2012 - Desmond Roland 80 yd kickoff return at Kansas State
2012 - Justin Gilbert 96 yd kickoff return vs. West Virginia
2012 - Zack Craig 30 yd blocked punt return vs. Texas Tech
2012 - Daytawion Lowe 37 yd fumble return vs. Purdue
2013 - Josh Stewart, 67 yd punt return vs. Lamar
2013 - Josh Stewart, 95 yd punt return vs. TCU
2013 - Justin Gilbert, 31 yd interception return at Iowa State
2013 - Tyler Johnson, 54 yd fumble recovery at Iowa State
2013 - Justin Gilbert, 100 yd kickoff return vs. Kansas
2013 - Justin Gilbert, 43 yd interception return at Texas
2013 - Tyler Patmon, 78 yd fumble recovery vs. Baylor
OSU Was One of Only Three 500-300 Teams
Oklahoma State was one of only three teams in the nation with a game with 500 passing yards and a game with 300 rushing yards in 2013 - and both of OSU's came on the road. The Pokes hit UTSA for 518 passing yards on Sept. 7 and battered Iowa State with 348 rushing yards on Oct. 26. Fresno State and San Jose State are the only other teams to pull the 500-300 double.
Perspective On Yards Per Play
Oklahoma State ranked 52nd nationally in total defense by yielding 384.9 yards per game in 2013. However, when analyzed on a per-play basis to account for the up-tempo offense played by the Cowboys and by many of their opponents, the OSU defense looks much better, ranking 11th by surrendering only 4.77 yards per play.
Defense Stout Per Possession
The Oklahoma State defense faced a challenge in that it was partnered with an offense that played at such a high tempo that it ended up spending more time on the field than all but seven teams in the country in 2013. As a result, statistics such as total defense, points allowed, rushing yards allowed and passing yards allowed are not true indicators of how the Cowboy defense performed in a given game. When the 2013 OSU defense is analyzed on a per-possession basis, it looks much better, averaging a Big 12-best 1.22 points allowed per possession.
Three and Out
Oklahoma State's defense excelled at forcing three-and-outs. A three-and-out is defined as a series in which the offense either punts after three plays or commits a turnover before getting a first down. OSU forced 75 three-and-outs in 197 defensive possessions (.380 pct.) spanning 13 games, for an average of 5.8 three-and-outs forced per game. That per-game average ranked fourth in the country.
Putting Opponents Behind The Chains
Part of Oklahoma State's defensive success stemmed from solid play on first down. The Cowboys limited opposing offenses to three yards or less on 249 of 453 first-down plays in 2013 (.550 pct.)
Cowboys on Third Down
Oklahoma State led the Big 12 and ranked seventh nationally by limiting opposing offenses to a .314 pct. conversion rate on third down. Part of the reason is that the Cowboys consistently put opposing offenses in third and medium and third and long situations. OSU defended 229 third down plays. Of those 229 plays, only 54 were third and short situations, meaning that 76 percent of OSU's third down plays defended were third and medium or third and long situations. In their final six games, the Cowboys limited Iowa State, Texas Tech, Kansas, Texas, Baylor, Oklahoma and Missouri to 6-for-67 on third and long situations (seven yards or more).
Run Stuffers
One area where Oklahoma State's defense was particularly effective is against the run. OSU allowed only 11 rushing touchdowns in its 13 games, a mark led the Big 12 and ranked 11th in the country. The Cowboy defense allowed only 3.6 yards per rushing attempt.
Limiting Explosive Plays
Another defensive trait that has emerged at Oklahoma State over the past few seasons is that the Cowboys have limited explosive plays from scrimmage by opposing offenses. For the purpose of this note, we'll use 20 yard plays from scrimmage as the definition of an explosive play. In 2013, OSU allowed 44 explosive plays from scrimmage, a mark that ranked 15th in the nation.
Efficiency Stats Tell A Different Story Than Traditional Stats
In yet another illustration of how traditional measures such as pass defense can be misleading, Oklahoma State ranked ninth out of 10 teams in the Big 12 and is 79th nationally by allowing 242.5 passing yards per game, but led the Big 12 and was sixth nationally in pass efficiency defense, limiting opposing passers to a 104.56 efficiency rating. Why such a substantial difference in two statistical areas that should correspond more closely? Because of the fact that the Cowboy offense - and most of the other offenses in the Big 12, for that matter - play at a high tempo and require the defense to defend more plays and more possessions per game.
Defensive Turnaround
The 2013 Oklahoma State defense performed much better than 2012's unit in terms of scoring defense. The Cowboys of 2013 limited opponents to 21.6 points per game. In 2012, the Pokes allowed 28.2 points per game. That represented the third-biggest scoring defense turnaround in OSU history from one year to the next.
Locker Room Talks Effective
Whatever Mike Gundyand his coaching staff said to the team in the locker room worked. Coming out of the locker room (the first and third quarters of games), Oklahoma State outscored the opposition by a combined margin of 271-88. The Pokes held a 140-58 scoring advantage in the first quarter and 131-30 advantage in the third quarter.
Keeping The Scoreboard Operator Busy
Oklahoma State averaged 39.1 points per game - a mark that ranked second in the Big 12 and was 14th nationally. The Cowboys were just 12 total points shy of being able to make the claim that they averaged 40 or more points per game in five of the past six seasons.
Balance, Balance, Balance
Perhaps the signature trait of Oklahoma State teams year in and year out under Mike Gundy is offensive balance. There is no better illustration of that than the 2007 season, when the Cowboys rushed for 3,161 yards and passed for 3,161 yards. A look at the balance of the 2013 team:
• OSU had 503 rushing attempts and 484 passing attempts.
• 17 different Oklahoma State players scored a touchdown.
• 13 different players caught a pass in the Cowboys' wins at UTSA and over Lamar.
• Four different Cowboys rushed for 200 yards or more and a fifth had 189 rushing yards.
• For the second straight year, OSU had two different 1,000-yard passers.
• Nine different players caught a touchdown pass in 2013. Seven of those nine players had more than one receiving touchdown and nobody had more than six touchdown catches.
Ball - and Quarterback - Security
Oklahoma State spent a period of each practice on ball security and it paid dividends, as the Cowboys committed only 18 turnovers. OSU lost only five fumbles - a mark that ranked seventh in the nation. Speaking of security, OSU's quarterbacks enjoyed secure surroundings in 2013, only being sacked 1.08 times per game - a mark that led the Big 12 and ranked ninth nationally. This is a regular theme for the Cowboys, who have led the Big 12 and ranked among the top 10 nationally in fewest sacks allowed in each of the past five years despite ranking among the national leaders in passing yardage for most of that time frame.
Plays From Special Teams
Oklahoma State got significant plays from several of its different special teams units. The Cowboys blocked four kicks (a field goal attempt at West Virginia, a PAT attempt at Iowa State and punts against Texas Tech and Oklahoma). OSU's four blocked kicks ranked as the 10th-best total in the country. The Pokes ranked 11th nationally with 13.43 yards per punt return. OSU returned two punts for touchdowns and two other punts that gave the Cowboys starting field position inside the opponent's 20 yard line - and that doesn't count a blocked punt that was recovered at the 15 yard line against Texas Tech.
Kickoff Coverage an Overlooked Factor in OSU's Success
Oklahoma State was effective in the kickoff game, as the Cowboys led the Big 12 and ranked 18th nationally in kickoff coverage by allowing only 18.74 yards per kickoff return. Only 21 of OSU's 92 kickoffs resulted in touchbacks, but it should be noted that OSU did just fine without the touchbacks. The average starting field position for opponents following an OSU kickoff in 2013 was the 24.6 yard line. To put that into perspective, the average starting field position for opponents following an OSU kickoff last year with all-everything kickoff man Quinn Sharp handling those responsibilities was the 28 yard line.
Speaking of Starting Field Position...
Oklahoma State was a consistent winner in the field position battle. The Cowboys had an average starting field position of their own 34.6 yard line. OSU's opponents had an average starting field position of their own 28.3 yard line.
Wins at Iowa State, Texas Tech Set a Program First
When Oklahoma State beat Iowa State, 58-27, and No. 15 Texas Tech, 52-34, in consecutive weeks, it marked the first time in the 112-year history of the program that the Cowboys scored 50 points or more in back-to-back road games.
Dual Threat
Oklahoma State quarterback Clint Chelfhelped the Cowboys with both his arm and his legs. The senior signal-caller passed for 2,169 yards and 17 touchdowns and rushed for 373 yards and seven touchdowns. Chelf ranked third in the Big 12 and 28th nationally with 13.23 yards per pass completion.
National Leaders in Adjusted QBR
1. Marcus Mariota, Oregon - 89.5
2. Jameis Winston, Florida State - 88.5
3. Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M - 86.3
4. Aaron Murray, Georgia - 86.1
5. Bryce Petty, Baylor - 85.5
6. Zach Mettenberger, LSU - 85.1
7. Brett Hundley, UCLA - 84.8
8. Clint Chelf, Oklahoma State - 83.9
9. Nick Marshall, Auburn - 83.0
10. Dak Prescott, Mississippi State - 83.0
Honors Rolled In For Chelf After Baylor Win
Clint Chelfwas recognized as the national offensive player of the week by the Walter Camp Football Foundation, Athlon Sports and CBSSports.com after he excelled in leading the Cowboys to a 49-17 win over No. 3 Baylor. He completed 19-of-25 passes - including each of his first 12 attempts - for a career-high 370 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions. His QBR of 97.8 was the second-highest of any quarterback in the nation that week. He was also honored as the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week and as one of eight Manning Award stars of the week as well.
Chelf Earned Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week vs. Texas Tech
Clint Chelfwas singled out as the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week after he was responsible for four touchdowns (two passing and two rushing) in the Cowboys' 52-34 win over No. 15 Texas Tech in Lubbock. His 67-yard touchdown run in the third quarter was the signature play of the game and was the crushing blow that put the contest out of reach in OSU's favor. Chelf's 67-yard run was the longest for an OSU quarterback since Brent Blackman had a 72-yard run in 1972. Chelf completed 18-of-34 passes for 211 yards and two touchdowns and carried six times for 88 yards with two scores in leading the Cowboys to the best road win for any team in the Big 12 this season. His 93.4 adjusted QBR against Texas Tech was the best for any Big 12 quarterback and was the seventh-best mark in the country that week.
Chelf Made Plays To Lift Cowboys Over Longhorns
Clint Chelfaccounted for four touchdowns (two rushing and two passing), rushed for a career-high 95 yards and had a QBR of 97.3 (the second-best mark of any quarterback in the country that week) in Oklahoma State's 38-13 road win at No. 23 Texas. Chelf completed 16-of-22 passes for 197 yards and two touchdowns.
Background on Chelf
After redshirting as a true freshman in 2009, Clint Chelf was OSU's second-team quarterback behind Brandon Weeden in 2010 and 2011. With Weeden selected in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, Chelf, Wes Lunt and J.W. Walshhad an open competition during 2012 spring drills to earn the starting quarterback spot. Lunt was named the starter, but was sidelined with an injury early in the regular season. Walsh then stepped in and also sustained an injury that opened the door for Chelf to take the reins. Chelf's performance during that time was strong enough for him to hold onto the starting job despite the fact that both Lunt and Walsh were healthy in the Cowboys' final two games of 2012. Chelf started the 2013 season opener vs. Mississippi State, but was replaced by Walsh in the first quarter when the coaches were looking to spark the offense. Walsh then held on to the starting spot for five games before Chelf was inserted during the TCU game when the coaches were again looking for a spark. Chelf started every ensuing game and the Cowboys flourished in the Big 12 standings with him at the helm.
Dual Threat, Part Two
Similar to Clint Chelf, J.W. Walshis also effective as both a passer and a runner. In week one against Mississippi State, the sophomore rushed for 125 yards and engineered three touchdown drives in leading Oklahoma State to a 21-3 win over the Bulldogs on a neutral field in Houston. In week two, Walsh set a school record for completion percentage (min. 20 attempts) and accounted for five touchdowns - four passing and one rushing - as part of OSU's 56-35 win at UTSA. Walsh had more touchdown passes (four) than incomplete passes (three) against UTSA and was honored as Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week for his performance. He was the only Big 12 quarterback with a 300-yard passing game and a 100-yard rushing game on his 2013 season résumé and was OSU's leading rusher in three games in 2013. He finished the season ranked 22nd nationally in adjusted QBR and was eighth nationally among underclassmen in that category, trailing only Oregon's Marcus Mariota, Florida State's Jameis Winston, Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel, UCLA's Brett Hundley, Mississippi State's Dak Prescott, Texas Tech's Davis Webb and North Carolina's Marquise Williams.
Comparing Walsh To Other Sophomore Quarterbacks
J.W. Walshranked among the elite sophomore signal-callers in the nation in 2013. He was one of only five sophomore quarterbacks with 20 or more passing touchdowns and 10 or more rushing touchdowns through the first two years of his career, joining Texas A&M's Johnny Manziel, Oregon's Marcus Mariota, UCLA's Brett Hundley and BYU's Taysom Hill.
Highest Career Adjusted QBR For Quarterbacks Returning for 2014 Season (min. 400 action plays)
1. Marcus Mariota, Oregon - 88.7
2. Jameis Winston, Florida State - 88.5
3. Bryce Petty, Baylor - 85.3
4. Nick Marshall, Auburn - 82.9
5. Davis Webb, Texas Tech - 82.6
6. Dak Prescott, Mississippi State - 82.2
7. J.W. Walsh, Oklahoma State - 80.1
8. Kevin Hogan, Stanford - 78.7
9. Brett Hundley, UCLA - 77.2
10. Marquise Williams, North Carolina - 76.2
More on Walsh's Record Showing vs. UTSA
J.W. Walshconnected on 24-of-27 passes for 326 yards and four touchdowns against UTSA and etched his name in the OSU record book in the process. His 88.9 completion percentage set a new school record for single-game completion percentage, minimum 20 pass attempts. He added a rushing touchdown as well. Walsh's 239.20 pass efficiency mark in the contest was good for the fourth-best single-game performance in school history. He started the game by completing 10 consecutive passes, then had two incompletions, then completed 10 consecutive passes again. By the time his day was done at the 9:47 mark of the third quarter, OSU held a 42-7 lead.
Roland Explodes on the Scene, Earns Big 12 Player of the Week Honor
Making the first start of his career, Oklahoma State running back Desmond Rolandrushed for 219 yards and four touchdowns on 26 carries to lead the Cowboys to a 58-27 win over Iowa State in Ames. He was honored as the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week for his outburst. Roland's 219 rushing yards were the second-most for a Big 12 player in a game in 2013 and his four touchdowns were the most. His 219 rushing yards were the most for an Oklahoma State back in a road game against a Big 12 opponent since Vernand Morency rushed for 269 yards at Kansas in 2003.
Rollin' with Roland
Desmond Rolandturned in a workmanlike performance in the Cowboys' win at No. 15 Texas Tech, carrying 31 times for 96 yards and three touchdowns against the Red Raiders. His numbers dipped after Kansas, Texas and Baylor keyed on him, but he erupted for 144 rushing yards and three touchdowns (two rushing, one passing) against Oklahoma. Since taking over as the starter, Roland scored 13 touchdowns - 11 rushing and two receiving. He had 13 rushing touchdowns in 2013, a mark that led all running backs in the Big 12 and ranked 31st among all players nationally.
Smith Knows His Way To The End Zone
Running back Jeremy Smith'snine rushing touchdowns in 2013 ranked him seventh in the Big 12. He rushed for 102 yards and three touchdowns in the Cowboys' season opening win against Mississippi State, then tacked on three more rushing touchdowns against Lamar and another against Kansas State. Smith finished his career ranked sixth on Oklahoma State's career rushing touchdowns list with 34.
Receivers' Calling Card is Balance
Josh Stewart and Tracy Moore were the leaders of the Oklahoma State receiving corps in 2013, but make no mistake; balance was OSU's best weapon in the passing game. Case in point - 13 different Cowboys caught passes in games against both UTSA and Lamar. Redshirt freshman Jhajuan Seales (39 catches for 571 yards and three touchdowns) emerged as a viable weapon on the outside and Charlie Mooreadded 35 receptions for 468 yards and took five of those in for touchdowns.
Small Stewart Has Big Impact
Standing 5-10 and weighing 185 pounds, Oklahoma State receiver Josh Stewartwasn't the biggest receiver in the nation, but what he lacked in size, he made up for with quickness, elusiveness, route-running and good hands. For the second straight year, the junior from Denton, Texas led OSU in receptions. He was second on the team in receiving yards. Stewart passed former OSU All-American and current Dallas Cowboys star Dez Bryant on OSU's career receptions list in the Cowboys' win over TCU and he became only the seventh 2,000-yard receiver in school history as part of the Cowboys' win at No. 15 Texas Tech. He trails only Rashaun Woods, Justin Blackmon and Hart Lee Dykes on OSU's career receptions list.
Stewart as a Punt Returner
Josh Stewartled the Big 12 and ranked fourth nationally with 16.7 yards per punt return in 2013. He had returns of 95 yards, 67 yards, 46 yards, 41 yards, 36 yards and 29 yards.
Stewart Sets School, Big 12 Record to Earn Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week
Josh Stewartrecorded the longest punt return in Oklahoma State and Big 12 history with a 95-yarder in the Cowboys' 24-10 win over TCU. That was the longest punt return for any player in the country in 2013. He added a 29-yard punt return later in the contest, but his 95-yarder was the one that gave the Cowboys the jolt they needed early in the game. That score was Stewart's second punt-return touchdown of the season (he had a 67-yarder against Lamar), tying him with Barry Sanders (1987), Darrent Williams (2003) and Dez Bryant (2008) atop the school list for most punt return touchdowns in a season.
Special On Special Teams
Josh Stewart was one of four members of the 2013 Cowboys with either a kickoff return touchdown or a punt return touchdown in his career, joining Justin Gilbert (six career kickoff return touchdowns), Desmond Roland (one career kickoff return touchdown) and Zack Craig(one career punt return touchdown). No team in America had more active players with a special teams touchdown in their career than OSU in 2013.
Stewart Earned Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week
Oklahoma State receiver Josh Stewartearned Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week honors after his performance against Lamar. Stewart scored on a 67-yard punt return and took a second punt back 41 yards to set up an OSU touchdown in lifting the Cowboys to a 59-3 win over the Cardinals. Stewart finished with 114 punt return yards. His 67-yarder marked OSU's first punt return for a touchdown since Josh Cooper had a 66-yarder against Troy on Sept. 11, 2010.
Moore of a Good Thing
Senior Tracy Moorejoined the OSU career top 10 in both receptions and receiving yards this season. He finished ranked eighth in school history with 144 receptions and eighth in school history with 2,064 receiving yards. Moore had at least one touchdown reception in five of OSU's last seven games and led the squad with six touchdown grabs on the year.
The Defensive Line As a Group
The play of the defensive line was among the biggest contributing factors in Oklahoma State's defensive resurgence in 2013. Time and time again, the Cowboys won the battle in the trenches, thanks largely to Calvin Barnett, James Castleman, Tyler Johnson and Jimmy Bean. With the defensive line setting the tone, the Cowboy defense averaged 7.3 tackles for loss per game in 2013 (a mark that ranked 16th nationally) and had 25 sacks - 19.5 of which belong to defensive linemen. Additionally, defensive tackle James Castlemanblocked a field goal attempt at West Virginia and a point-after attempt at Iowa State.
Barnett a Presence in the Middle
Senior defensive tackle Calvin Barnettcommanded attention and was frequently double-teamed by opposing offensive linemen, but still managed 9.0 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and five quarterback hurries in 2013. Though his stats may not reveal it, his ability to open up lanes for the other members of the Cowboy front seven was a substantial factor in OSU's defensive resurgence.
Man On Fire
Senior defensive end Tyler Johnsonwas as active as anyone on the OSU defense, recording 52 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, five quarterback hurries and three forced fumbles. His 54-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the second half of OSU's 58-27 win over Iowa State in Ames was one of the team's signature moments of the season.
Lavey One of the Big 12's Best
Linebacker Caleb Laveywas a force in the middle of the Oklahoma State defense. The senior from Celina, Texas led the team with 93 tackles and 13.0 tackles for loss. He finished seventh in the Big 12 and 33rd nationally with 5.4 solo tackles per game. Lavey's four interceptions led all Big 12 linebackers and was third among linebackers nationally. His 13.0 tackles for loss tied for the lead among all Big 12 linebackers.
Linebackers With The Most Interceptions in 2013
1. Shawn Jackson, Tulsa - 5
1. Cam Thomas, Western Kentucky - 5
3. Caleb Lavey, Oklahoma State - 4
3. Chi Chi Ariguzo, Northwestern - 4
3. Skai Moore, South Carolina - 4
3. James Morris, Iowa - 4
Lavey Earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week vs. Mississippi State
Oklahoma State senior linebacker Caleb Laveyearned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week after the Cowboys' season-opening win over Mississippi State. Lavey recorded a team-best 11 tackles in that contest and added two tackles for loss and a half-sack. It was the first such honor of Lavey's career.
The Playmaker
Shaun Lewis was an important player on Oklahoma State's defense throughout his career. The senior from Missouri City, Texas, started each of his last 45 games and his 250 career tackles trailed only Daytawion Lowe's 269 among Cowboys active in 2013. Lewis's 195 career solo tackles ranked him 15th nationally among all players active in 2013. Lewis was praised time and time again by his position coach and OSU defensive coordinator Glenn Spencerfor his intelligence, leadership and savvy. Lewis racked up 73 tackles, eight tackles for loss, three interceptions, two fumbles forced, two fumbles recovered, five pass breakups and a quarterback hurry in 2013.
Lewis Earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week vs. Kansas State
For the second time in his career, Shaun Lewisearned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week following his performance in Oklahoma State's win over Kansas State. In addition to snuffing out K-State's comeback hopes with an interception late in the fourth quarter, Lewis forced a fumble that was scooped up by the Cowboys, recovered a different fumble, led the team with eight tackles and bagged a tackle for loss in OSU's dramatic 33-29 win.
Gilbert Keyed Win At Texas, Earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week
Justin Gilbertintercepted two passes and returned one 43 yards for a touchdown to lead OSU's 38-13 win over No. 23 Texas in Austin. He also had nine tackles and a pass breakup in the win and was recognized as Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week for his performance.
Gilbert Was Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week vs. Kansas
Justin Gilbertearned Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week honors after he returned the opening kickoff of the game 100 yards for a touchdown in the Cowboys' 42-6 win over Kansas. Gilbert's score - the sixth kickoff return touchdown of his career - gave him sole possession of the conference's career record, made him the active leader among all NCAA players and left him just one kickoff return touchdown shy of tying the NCAA record of seven, held jointly by Clemson's C.J. Spiller (2006-09) and Houston's Tyron Carrier (2008-11).
Not Your Everyday Transfer
The Cowboy secondary received a boost in the preseason with the addition of Tyler Patmon, a three-year starter at Kansas who graduated early and enrolled at OSU for graduate school, but nobody knew how much of a boost he would end up bringing. Patmon finished with a team-best nine pass breakups on the year and he recorded his first interception in an OSU uniform at West Virginia. Patmon picked up a fumble against Baylor and returned it 78 yards for a touchdown in OSU's 49-17 rout of the No. 3 Bears. He started against Kansas State, Texas Tech, Kansas, Texas and Baylor.
Safety First
Free safety Daytawion Lowe joined Calvin Barnett, Caleb Lavey, Shaun Lewis and Justin Gilbertin being part of the leadership of the Cowboy defense. Lowe was a consistent performer throughout his time in Stillwater and finished his career with 262 tackles. Lowe's 211 career solo tackles ranked him seventh nationally among all players active in 2013. His interception against Kansas State was the final dagger applied in the Cowboys' dramatic win over the Wildcats in 2013.
Battle Tested
Strong safety Shamiel Garyhad to win a position battle that lasted through spring, summer and fall camp to keep the starting job that he held in 2012. His performance during the 2013 season validated the coaching staff's decision to keep him in the starting role, as he tied for the team lead with nine pass break-ups, highlighted by a three-PBU performance against TCU. Gary finished 13th in the Big 12 with 0.82 passes defended per game in 2013.
Grogan Earned Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week
Freshman kicker Ben Groganearned Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week following his performance against Kansas State. Grogan kicked four field goals in the victory - a feat made even more impressive by the fact that the game featured eight lead changes and every kick he attempted had significant implications on the outcome of the contest. Grogan's four field goals made and 15 points scored by kicking were both OSU freshman records.
First-Timers
A total of 13 players made the first starts of their respective careers for Oklahoma State in 2013 - defensive ends Jimmy Bean and Tyler Johnson, linebacker Ryan Simmons, cornerback Tyler Patmon, safety Lyndell Johnson, running back Desmond Roland, offensive linemen Travis Cross, Chris Grisbhy, Brandon Garrett and Paul Lewis, tight end Zac Veatch and receivers Jhajuan Seales and David Glidden. All told, 23 players saw the first game action of their OSU careers in 2013, highlighted by five true freshmen - receiver Marcell Ateman, kicker Ben Grogan, safeties Deric Robertson and Jordan Sterns and running back Rennie Childs.
State of the Program
The Oklahoma State football program has risen to a new level of national prominence in recent years. A look:
Most Wins, 2008-present
1. Alabama ........ 72-9
2. Boise State ........ 69-10
3. Oregon ........ 67-12
4. Ohio State ........ 63-15
4. Oklahoma ........ 63-17
6. LSU ........ 61-18
6. Florida State ........ 61-20
8. Oklahoma State ........ 59-19
8. Stanford ........ 59-20
10. TCU ........ 58-19
New Staff Meetings
For the first time in several years, OSU had a significant turnover in its coaching staff from 2012 to 2013. Four new coaches joined the staff, including a pair of new coordinators. The newcomers were offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Mike Yurcich, receivers coach Jason Ray, defensive line coach Joe Bob Clements and safeties coach Tim Duffie. Glenn Spencer was elevated from co-defensive coordinator to defensive coordinator. He continued to coach linebackers as well.
• Yurcich came to OSU from Shippensburg in Pennsylvania, where he served as offensive coordinator for the most potent attack in Division II.
• Ray is a native Oklahoman who played at Missouri and was most recently on the staff at Wyoming.
• Clements is a former player and staff member at Kansas State.
• A native of Jefferson, Texas, Duffie came to OSU after coaching stops at UTEP, Colorado State and Wake Forest.
Coordinating Efforts
OSU broke in two new coordinators in the same season for the first time since 2005 (Mike Gundy's first season as the Cowboy head coach). Mike Yurcich became the fifth offensive coordinator under Gundy. Previously that position was held by Larry Fedora (2005-2007), Dana Holgorsen (2010) and Todd Monken (2011-12). In 2008 and 2009 Gunter Brewer and Joe Wickline held the title of co-offensive coordinators with Gundy the play-caller. Spencer is the successor of Vance Bedford (2005-2006), Tim Beckman (2007-2008) and Bill Young (2009-2012).
