STILLWATER — The first game week of the new season has finally arrived, bringing with it the chance for Oklahoma State to snap the nine-game losing streak that dates back to last September.
The fresh-look Cowboys, with 62 new players and 12 assistant coaches, play host to UT Martin at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Boone Pickens Stadium, broadcast on ESPN+.
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The Pokes enter the season with far more questions than answers, but this will help to solve at least a few of them.
Here’s a look at what you need to know about this week’s matchup:
Oklahoma State vs. UT Martin
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Where: Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater
Scouting UT Martin
More: History gives hints about Oklahoma State football’s defense under Todd Grantham
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2024 Record: 9-6, 6-2 OVC/Big South
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Best player: Cornerback JaMichael McGoy Jr. was a second-team All-American last year after a season in which he had 43 tackles, three interceptions and 18 pass breakups.
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The case for the Skyhawks: Voted second in the Ohio Valley/Big South Football Association preseason poll, one point behind Tennessee Tech, the Skyhawks are a reputable FCS program. They’ve won or shared the last four conference titles, last year relying on a strong defense. Though some of the faces have changed, the defense will be the key to a strong performance for the Skyhawks, trying to put pressure on OSU’s inexperienced quarterbacks.
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The case for the Cowboys: Talent-wise, the Skyhawks should pose no serious threat to OSU, despite the immense roster turnover. The vibe coming out of preseason camp suggested a fast, physical and athletic defense that will be ready to attack an FCS offense. The key to the game for OSU will be finding consistency on offense, particularly in the run game where the Pokes should be capable of opening holes.
Scott Wright covers Oklahoma State athletics for The Oklahoman. Have a story idea for Scott? He can be reached at swright@oklahoman.com or on Twitter at @ScottWrightOK. Sign up for the Oklahoma State Cowboys newsletter to access more OSU coverage. Support Scott’s work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at subscribe.oklahoman.com or by using the link at the top of this page.
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This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OSU football vs. UT Martin: TV channel, betting lines, scouting report
