Will Oklahoma State football offense show new life at BYU? Here’s a look at key matchups

PROVO, Utah — While Oklahoma State’s struggles during its three-game losing streak have become predictable, the Cowboys come into this week’s game with at least a little mystery.

Who will be quarterback? What schematic changes were made during the bye week?

OSU (3-3, 0-3 Big 12) needs something to look different when they take on No. 13 BYU (6-0, 3-0) at 9:15 p.m. Friday at LaVell Edwards Stadium.

Can the Cowboys pull off another midseason turnaround, like they did after a 2-2 start last year?

It’ll take a significant reboot, but coach Mike Gundy and his staff have often shown a knack for shaking things up during a bye week.

Here’s a look at the matchup breakdown:

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When OSU runs the ball

BYU isn’t the best run defense around, so maybe Ollie Gordon II can find a few holes. Gordon has begun to show signs of breaking loose, but still is looking for his first run of at least 30 yards this season. The offensive line needed the extra week of preparation as much as anyone and must show a consistent ability to open holes for Gordon. Opponents are averaging 120 rushing yards per game against the Cougars.

When OSU throws the ball

The bigger question remains, who will be throwing the ball? Gundy said he and his staff would make a decision after Thursday’s practice, though redshirt sophomore Garret Rangel seems the likely candidate to run the show. Rangel has never had two consecutive weeks to prepare for a starting assignment — with the exception of the bowl game in 2022 after a dozen teammates had entered the transfer portal.

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When BYU runs the ball

Here’s the question that looms over the OSU defense like a plague. The Pokes rank 129th nationally against the run, giving up 235.0 yards per game. Though BYU hasn’t been wildly impressive, it has shown efficiency when it runs the ball. And for opponents of the Cowboys so far, that has turned into big plays. With linebackers Nick Martin and Collin Oliver out for a considerable amount of time, defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo has to adjust within the framework of the talent he has to make the run defense more effective.

When BYU throws the ball

BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff isn’t a world-beater, but he’s an adequate passer and a veteran who understands how to operate the Cougars’ offensive scheme. He’s completing 60.3% of his passes for an average of 237.7 yards per game. The OSU secondary has been better than it was last year at limiting big pass plays, but there’s always room for improvement.  

OSU at BYU

KICKOFF: 9:15 p.m. Friday at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah (ESPN)