Vincent Taylor ready for expanded role in Oklahoma State's defense

STILLWATER, Okla. — At this time 12 months ago, Oklahoma State had the defensive tackle position circled on its priority list.

James Castleman and Ofa Hautau had moved on, leaving a major gap in the middle and leaving Cowboys fans concerned Oklahoma State’s defensive interior might be easily overrun.

Those fears didn’t become reality as sophomore Vincent Taylor seized his opportunity to become a major part of the defense while helping the Cowboys finish 10-3, including an Allstate Sugar Bowl appearance. Taylor finished with 48 tackles including 8.5 tackles for loss and five sacks while providing an interior presence that allowed defensive ends Emmanuel Ogbah and Jimmy Bean to excel on the…