With the start of the 2026 college football season approaching, Oklahoma State football is poised for a fresh beginning under the leadership of new head coach Eric Morris. This change comes on the heels of a disappointing 1-11 season, which ultimately led to the departure of longtime coach Mike Gundy. As the Cowboys look to rebuild, they have brought in a host of new talent, including quarterback Drew Mestemaker, who previously played at North Texas.
Mestemaker's arrival is seen as a significant boost for the Cowboys, who are eager to turn the page on last season's struggles. Alongside him, running back Caleb Hawkins and wide receiver Wyatt Young have also joined the roster, adding depth and skill to an offense that desperately needs revitalization. The combination of Mestemaker's leadership and the influx of new players could be the key to Oklahoma State's resurgence in the competitive landscape of college football.
The Oklahoman sports staff has weighed in on their predictions for the Cowboys' performance in 2026, highlighting Mestemaker as a central figure in their analysis. Columnist Jenni Carlson, for instance, predicts that Mestemaker will emerge as the team's MVP, underscoring the importance of his role in the upcoming season. She also identifies the Cowboys' biggest game as their matchup against West Virginia on September 26, while noting a potential trap game against Kansas on November 28.
Other analysts echo Carlson's sentiments regarding Mestemaker's impact. Ben Hutchens, who covers the team closely, also lists Mestemaker as the MVP and predicts an 8-4 final record for the Cowboys. He emphasizes the significance of the September 12 game against Oregon as a pivotal moment in the season. Meanwhile, Joe Mussatto, another columnist, agrees on Mestemaker's MVP status and points to the October 10 game against UCF as crucial for Oklahoma State's aspirations.
Throughout these discussions, the consensus is clear: Drew Mestemaker is expected to be a transformative player for Oklahoma State as they seek to improve their fortunes. The Cowboys' new coaching staff, led by Morris, is focused on instilling a winning culture and maximizing the potential of their new roster. The upcoming season will not only test the capabilities of the new players but also the effectiveness of Morris's strategies in navigating a challenging schedule.
As the Cowboys prepare for the 2026 season, the predictions from various sports analysts reflect a cautious optimism. With a blend of experienced newcomers and a fresh coaching perspective, Oklahoma State football aims to bounce back from last year's disappointment. The success of this new era will largely hinge on the performance of key players like Mestemaker, who is expected to lead the charge in what could be a defining season for the program.
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