NCAA Football Preview 2015: Big 12 Conference Breakdown

Jan 2, 2015; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Cyler Miles (10) dodges a tackle by Washington Huskies defensive lineman Elijah Qualls (11) during the first half in the 2015 Cactus Bowl at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

NCAA Big 12 Projection: Oklahoma State Cowboys #4

It was a strange year for the Oklahoma State Cowboys in 2014. The Cowboys had one of their worst seasons since 2007, finishing 7-6. Because of this, 2015 needs to be a bounce-back year for the Cowboys.

Can the Cowboys rise in 2015? Well, Oklahoma State is hoping the building process they’re trying to accomplish in the offseason, will get the job done. The Cowboys were overworked and demoralized a year ago, with both depth concerns and a stumbling offense to blame.

But the Cowboys defense is deep this season. There’s significant power at every level, beginning with defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah, who was a reckoned force in 2014. Ogbah, who is extremely physically gifted, registered 11 sacks, 17 tackles for a loss, and the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year award.

Senior Jimmy Bean at the other end, and Ogbah are a feared 1-2 punch on defense, becoming one of the Cowboys’ major developments this offseason.

You can’t forget about senior Ryan Simmons, who leads a pack of powerful linebackers. Kevin Peterson, the young cornerback talent, is the heart the secondary. The Cowboys are hoping these two can make up for the injuries lack of depth that was exposed in 2014.

Even losing 28 seniors, Oklahoma State will try to compete at a high level this season. They’ve added talent across the roster, now let’s see if it was enough to get the Cowboys back on top.

Next: Charlie Strong Ready For Bounce-back Season