College Basketball Regional Power Rankings: Can the Texas Longhorns win the Big 12?

Jan 27, 2014; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys guard

(33) reacts during the game Oklahoma Sooners at Lloyd Noble Center. Oklahoma won 88-76. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

4. Oklahoma State Cowboys (16-6, 4-5 Big 12)

Cowboy fans shouldn’t panic about their teams ‘s recent slump, losing three of their last four matchups. They should definitely be concerned, though, after dropping a home game to struggling Baylor 76-70 this past weekend. They should be even more concerned with the play of Marcus Smart, who continues to struggle. In the last four games, Smart is shooting 25.4% from the field and is only 3 of 28 from three-point range. Oklahoma State is also missing the post presence of Michael Cobbins, who is out for the season with a torn Achilles tendon. In the last three losses, the Cowboys have been outrebounded 111-96. Cobbins’ athleticism and shot-blocking ability (1.5 BPG before injury) could have been extremely helpful during this slide. Smart and Markel Brown are too talented to let this team fall too far, but they need to regroup quickly. Iowa State comes to town for a Big Monday showdown and a visit to Lubbock to take on Texas Tech follows.

Late Night Update: Ok, maybe it’s time panic a little bit. The Pokes just dropped a triple overtime thriller to the Cyclones 98-97. Travis Ford’s squad has now lost four of their last five games. Freshman point guard Stevie Clark was kicked off the team earlier this afternoon for his second arrest in the last month. Smart had ONE first half point. Oklahoma State is reeling and desperately needs a win over the Red Raiders this weekend to stop the bleeding.