A New Era in Stillwater
In December 2025, Oklahoma State announced Eric Morris as its new head coach, sparking immediate excitement for the 2026 campaign. Morris, known for his Air Raid philosophy, brings a proven track record of developing quarterbacks such as Drew Mestemaker at Texas Tech, where he worked under the late Mike Leach. The hiring marks a decisive shift in offensive strategy and sets a high bar for the upcoming season.
The offensive revamp centers on a group of key transfers and returning standouts, including Caleb Hawkins, Wyatt Young, Chris Barnes and Justin Bowick. Their presence has generated considerable buzz during fall workouts, with pundits expecting the unit to click quickly under Morris’s system. The excitement is amplified by the program’s recent pattern of rapid improvement, a trend that has become a hallmark of the Big 12.
Defensive concerns, however, remain a focal point. Defensive coordinator Skyler Cassity, who previously revitalized North Texas’ defense, now faces scrutiny as the Cowboys’ front seven and secondary look thin on depth. Early scrimmages are being closely watched for signs of progress in pass rush and safety play, areas that could determine the team’s overall ceiling.
The season opener against Tulsa on September 5, 2026, will serve as the first real test of this new-look roster. Roster competition is intensifying, and the outcomes of fall practices will likely shape the final two‑deep before the first game. Meanwhile, the broader conference landscape, which has seen recent turnarounds such as Arizona State’s 2024 resurgence, adds another layer of anticipation for Oklahoma State’s potential breakout.