Unsung Hero: Tulsa

Football is back, folks! At CRFF, we did a series last year where we looked at the unsung hero of the game. This was a piece every week that looked at a player that may not get the same press as Mason Rudolph, James Washington, etc., but still had an impact in the game. We will be continuing the series this year, looking back at the game against Tulsa.

The Oklahoma State offense was what we all expected it to be - elite. The speed and talent all over the field could not be stopped by the Golden Hurricane defense. Mason Rudolph had an efficient 20-of-24 day with 303 yards and three TDs in three quarters of play. James Washington was his usual self, with six catches for 145 yards and two touchdowns. Justice Hill ran for 132 yards and a touchdown.

On the defensive side of the ball, there's speed too. Pistol Pete helmets were flying to the ball no matter where it went, and a posse of Cowboys were always there to make the stop. Tre Flowers led the team in tackles with eight total, but Chad Whitener led the team with six solo tackles.

But, the unsung hero this week is a true freshman who saw his first college action on Thursday. The unsung hero this week is J.D. King.

Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports

He only had six carries in the game, but he made the most of them. He ran for 95 yards, including a 71 yard touchdown run.

King won the backup running back job in fall camp over Jeff Carr (who has transferred), LD Brown, Ja'Ron Wilson, and Chuba Hubbard. In his first showing as the backup, he did not disappoint. He showed ability to hit the running lane quick and leave the defense in the dust. But he also showed he is a powerful runner, running over defenders in traffic. He is a good change-of-pace back from Justice Hill, which is why I believe he was named the backup for him. Hill is fast and shifty, and King is more of a power back. The combination of the two running backs could become deadly, and I am excited to see what the running game can do for the elite Oklahoma State offense this year.