Oklahoma State Cowboys
2000 overall record: 3-8
Conference record: 1-7 (5th in South)
Returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 7
Kickers: 1
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Reggie White (1,049 yds)
Passing: Aso Pogi* (1,550 yds)
Receiving: Gabe Lindsay* (359 yds)
Tackles: Dwayne Levels* (95)
Sacks: Juqua Thomas (9.5)
Interceptions: Elbert Craig* (3)
What's new
New head coach Les Miles brings in eight new assistants, including former OSU quarterback Mike Gundy as assistant head coach and offensive coordinator. We all know that QBs like to throw the ball, so look for more passing from the Cowboys. New defensive coordinator Bill Clay will deploy an unusual 4-2 defense with 5 DBs to best utilize his personnel.
Battling it out
With more balls being thrown there is more of a demand for pass catchers at OSU. Two starting spots are available, and there are four guys who started at some point last year. Willie Young and Rashaun Woods earned the top spots for the Spring Game, but JC transfer John Lewis looked good with 73 yards and a TD. Gabe Lindsay was held out with an injury. It certainly sets up for an interesting fall at receiver.
Eye catcher: SS Roger Bombach
The former walkon played sparingly on defense last year, but he is now listed as the starter at strong safety after an impressive spring. He has good quickness and is a hard hitter for his size. Bombach had a sack in the Spring Game.
Budding star: RB Tatum Bell
There is another vacancy that needs to be filled at running back, but talent at that position is not a concern. The highly recruited Bell played as a true freshman last year and showed flashes of his ability in limited action, including a 60-yard TD run vs. Oklahoma. He is a quick, slashing type who could be extremely dangerous in an offense that can stretch the field.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
