As the season approaches its climax, Oklahoma State's aspirations for a College Football Playoff (CFP) berth have become more complex following a recent defeat. However, not everything is lost for the Cowboys as they navigate the remaining weeks of the season.
A New Era Under Eric Morris
Eric Morris, the head coach of the Oklahoma State Cowboys, has a compelling coaching journey. Transitioning from his previous role at North Texas, where he nearly led the team to the Playoffs, he brought key players, including star quarterback Drew Mestemaker and running back Caleb Hawkins, to Stillwater.
The season had a rocky start, as the Cowboys suffered a disappointing 24-10 loss against Tulsa in their opener. Yet, they bounced back with an impressive 39-31 victory over the Oregon Ducks, showcasing their potential.
The Odds of Making the Playoffs
Currently, the odds are stacked against Oklahoma State. If they manage to win all their remaining games, they have around a 42% chance of securing a spot in the CFP, according to forecasts. However, their path is fraught with challenges.
Here’s a look at their upcoming schedule:
- at Iowa State - 71% chance of winning
- at Kansas State - 54% chance
- vs. Texas Tech - 42% chance
- at Arizona State - 67% chance
- vs. Kansas - 68% chance
The loss to Houston severely impacted their strength of schedule, requiring them to not only win out but also depend on favorable outcomes in other games.
Scenario for Success
One significant opportunity awaits if they can reach the Big 12 Title Game. A potential matchup against an undefeated Utah would provide a chance for a high-stakes showdown. However, if Utah loses to rivals like BYU or Cincinnati, it could substantially reshape the playoff landscape.
Additionally, the Cowboys would benefit from other teams in the SEC, notably those with two losses, faltering in the coming weeks to further simplify their path. Key teams to watch include:
- Florida Gators
- Texas Longhorns
- LSU Tigers
- Ole Miss Rebels
In essence, while the road ahead for Oklahoma State is challenging, each victory on their part coupled with a bit of collaborative unpredictability from other teams could keep their playoff dreams alive.