With the release of the Amway Preseason Coaches Poll earlier this week, Oklahoma State was nowhere to be found in the top 25, however, the Cowboys did manage to receive 56 votes; two more votes than Big 12 opponent TCU. This is the first time since 2010 that the Cowboys didn't begin the season in the top 25, but the Orange Faithful shouldn't be discouraged.
In 2010, Oklahoma State was overlooked after a 9-4 season, and would be replacing quarterback Zac Robinson and a 1000-yard rusher in Keith Toston. The season looked as if it could turn into a long one as the Cowboys were in a rebuilding stage. Sound familiar? But, from the ashes rose Brandon Weeden to lead the Pokes to a historical season. Weeden finally received his opportunity and took advantage of it to exceed expectations. The gunslinger put himself in Heisman considerations throwing for 4,277 yards and 34 touchdowns while leading Oklahoma State to an 11-2 record. Weeden also received some help from the running game thanks to Kendall Hunter. Hunter found the end zone 16 times on the ground while racking up 1,548 yards. Weeden and the Cowboys ended the season at No. 10 in the final coaches poll after handling Arizona in the Alamo Bowl.
2014 could be somewhat of a deja vu for Cowboy fans who remember 2010. J.W. Walsh is finally receiving an opportunity under center and Des Roland could be a strong anchor in the backfield. The Cowboys begin the season with what seems to be a long shot, but will have a pretty easy road for a majority of the season. If Oklahoma State can avoid an upset and manage to pull of an upset of their own at Baylor or Oklahoma, then the Cowboys could once again put together another 11-2 season and top ten finish. Walsh has the leadership ability to guide his team through anything. Plus, with Roland and help from Tyreek Hill and Rennie Childs, OSU could become the most explosive offensive in the Big 12. Look for Oklahoma State to drop some jaws this season, because the Cowboys are just where they want to be.