The Daily O’Collegian

The Cowboy backfield is relying on experience and team chemistry as the season opener approaches.

“For the most part, offensively, we have the same players,” sophomore running back Keith Toston said. “We only lost two players, so everything’s going strong.”

Toston said the Cowboys can start this season where they left off last season because of so few graduations.

Additionally, the Cowboys have the No. 30 recruiting class in the nation and fourth in the Big 12, according to http://oklahomastate.rivals.com.

This includes one true freshman running back, Kendall Hunter.

“Kendall has done good; I would say that there’s a good chance he’ll play,” coach Mike Gundy said. “He’s stayed healthy throughout camp, and he’s showed signs of growth.”

Asked how the team members are coming together and integrating new players, Toston said they are clicking well and becoming close.

“The backfield is ready, and we’re healthy,” Toston said. “We’re always together, and I believe that fits with what we’re trying to do right now.”

The key to an efficient running game doesn’t rest solely on the shoulders of the runners, however.

The offensive line has to do its part to open holes, and the linemen take the responsibility seriously.

“I’m happy to see it when [running backs] break,” sophomore lineman Russell Okung said. “But then I remember I have to jog down there and get ready for the extra point.”

Okung said the running backs and the linemen have a mutual respect for one another.

“The running backs really take care of us,” Okung said. “They give us food and you know, that’s all we can really ask for.”

Okung also said the backfield always supports him. Toston adds that it’s all part of being a team.

“The bond comes quickly,” Toston said. “With football, everyone is always together in weight room and on the field.”

Although the team has yet to play a game, many within the organization said they think the hardest part is already over.

“The games are their rewards: They are entertainers,” Gundy said. “Saturday is their day, but we still need practice.”

Toston said the team is not successful until it makes it to a Bowl Championship Series game.

“Personally, I’m trying to do whatever I can to put the team in a position to win,” Toston said. “But that’s the main goal; we need to get to a BCS bowl game.”

The Cowboys open the season against Georgia on Saturday in Athens. The push for the BCS begins now.