Oklahoma State has a new identity – and it is no longer on offense. Daxx Garman's first start since 2009 was overshadowed by a dominant Oklahoma State defense as Glenn Spencer's group once again stole the spotlight. The defensive line was dominant, Simmons and Furman were omnipresent, and the secondary was on lockdown; the experienced Roadrunner offense sputtered for a mere 206 total yards with six of their thirteen points coming on short-field scenarios. Expect this 2014 Oklahoma State squad to continue to win games with their defense.

In the end, the offense did just enough to put the game away against an out-manned opponent. Daxx showed complete disregard for the short and intermediate passing game, ditching the Gundy-Fedora-Air-Raid in favor of the jump ball. The new Daxx-led offense fed the home crowd a steady diet of incomplete passes, sacks, three-and-outs, and spectacular long balls. After a rough start, the wide receivers came down with several difficult catches and had numerous other incompletions flagged for defensive pass interference. In his first game since the season opener, Desmon Roland made a big difference in the ground game, rushing for 95 yards on 21 carries (4.5 ypc). Ben Grogan was perfect on the night, going 3-3, including a new career long of 47 yards. The offensive line remains a work in progress.

Overall, this was a lopsided victory over a team that many thought would give the Pokes more trouble. While the offense continues to be unimpressive, the defense has shown it can keep games competitive - hopefully providing Daxx enough time to grow into the starting role.

The Cowboys are off next weekend, but resume play on Thursday, September 25, against Coach Bro and Taco Tech.