Usually when Oklahoma State fans talk about the Cowboys and third downs, they’re talking about the defense. But third downs have been key to how the OSU offense is performing so far this year.
So much of college offenses are predicated on rhythm, and a key third-down pickup can keep the momentum rolling downhill. Take this third-and-long from OSU’s own goal line on Saturday. It was just 7-0 at the time, but that third-down gain was part of a drive that made it 14-0, and, as Mike Gundy might say, it’s over.
So far through three games the Cowboys are 22-39 converting a third down, or 56 percent.