Oklahoma State Cowboys aim to rebound in 2025 season but face uphill battle to emerge as true Big 12 championship contenders
Oklahoma State enters the 2025 college football season determined to turn the page on a disappointing and inconsistent 2024 campaign. The Cowboys, long respected for their resilience and stability under head coach Mike Gundy, are aiming to restore momentum and reestablish themselves as a steady force in the Big 12. However, while there is optimism surrounding player development, offseason adjustments, and an infusion of young talent, the reality is that this year’s squad may still be a step away from legitimately contending for the conference title.
One of the primary areas the Cowboys will focus on is offensive execution. In 2024, Oklahoma State’s attack was plagued by stretches of inefficiency, turnovers, and stalled drives that made it difficult to keep pace with the Big 12’s explosive teams. Improvement at quarterback is paramount, as consistent accuracy, smart decision-making, and command of the offense are essential in this pass-heavy league. The development of the offensive line will be equally critical, as protecting the quarterback and creating space for the run game remain pressing needs. Without a more reliable front, even the most skilled playmakers will struggle to consistently shine.
Defensively, the Cowboys showed flashes of capability last season but struggled to sustain success against top-tier competition. The defensive line returns some experienced pass rushers who can pressure opposing quarterbacks, but the secondary still has lingering questions. In a conference where air attacks can overwhelm defenses in a hurry, Oklahoma State will need more disciplined coverage and better tackling in the open field. Depth in the defensive backfield will be tested, and any injuries could quickly expose vulnerabilities.
The 2025 schedule poses another challenge. Oklahoma State will have to navigate matchups against traditional Big 12 powers as well as rising programs eager to make their mark. Road trips to hostile environments could be decisive in shaping the team’s trajectory, as winning away from home has been an area where the Cowboys have struggled in recent seasons. The key will be finding ways to steal games against favored opponents while avoiding costly upsets against lower-ranked teams.
Recruiting and player development will also play a major role in determining how quickly Oklahoma State can close the gap with the conference’s elite. The Cowboys have built a reputation for identifying under-the-radar talent and molding it into productive starters, but with the Big 12 growing more competitive each year, maintaining that edge is becoming increasingly difficult. Bringing in impact players on both sides of the ball — particularly in the trenches and secondary — will be essential for sustained success.
Leadership within the locker room could prove to be the X-factor. Veteran players must set the tone in practices, hold teammates accountable, and maintain a steady focus throughout the grind of the season. In past successful years, Oklahoma State has relied on such leadership to navigate adversity, and replicating that formula will be necessary if the team hopes to exceed expectations.
While it’s unlikely that the Cowboys will enter 2025 as favorites to win the Big 12, the season still holds importance as a potential launching point for future contention. A strong showing, even without a title run, could signal that the program is on an upward trajectory. For now, the goal may be less about chasing immediate glory and more about building the foundation for a stronger, more complete team in the near future.
In short, Oklahoma State in 2025 is a team with promise but also with clear areas to address. The Cowboys’ path back to Big 12 prominence will require patience, growth, and a commitment to eliminating the costly mistakes that have held them back. While they may not be ready to hoist the conference trophy this year, the steps they take now could determine how soon they get another chance.
