Oklahoma State University’s head coach Eric Morris has locked in the bulk of his starting lineup for the season opener, while the roles of backups and rotational players remain fluid.
At quarterback, Drew Mestemaker will take the first snap, with Grant Jordan listed as his backup; the coaching staff notes that Mestemaker’s early‑season injury history factored into the decision.
The running back corps will be led by Caleb Hawkins, who earned the starting spot, while speedy rookie KD Jones is slated as the backup and could see increased snaps in passing situations.
Wide receiver duties will be shared among Wyatt Young, Chris Barnes and Justin Bowick, with Miles Coleman, Terrence Lewis and Jabarie Thornton providing depth.
Carson Kolb is set to start at tight end, backed up by Donovan Green; Coach Morris has indicated no changes to this projection from previous weeks.
The offensive line appears stable, anchored by Jacob Sexton at left tackle and Shaun Torgeson at right tackle, with no expected alterations to the starting five.
Defensive Front
Defensively, Jaleel Johnson and James Williams will line up as the starting ends, while Malik Charles and Billy Walton III serve as backups; Walton’s blend of speed and experience could earn him a two‑deep spot.
Saadiq Clements and Jerry Lawson are the starting defensive tackles, with Iman Oates and Enai White rotating in; White’s recent development has drawn particular attention.
Linebacker positions will be manned by Ethan Wesloski and Isaiah Chisom, with Dallas Winner‑Johnson and Tate Romney as the primary reserves.
In the secondary, LaDainian Fields and Mo Horn are the starting cornerbacks, supported by Kollin Lewis and Kobi Foreman.
Special Teams Outlook
Special teams will rely on kicker Sam Keltner and punter Lachie Pozzobon, while return duties will be shared by Chris Barnes and Miles Coleman; the coaching staff notes that backup assignments are still being finalized.