Friday, September 5, 2025
HOA sues Google over pond pollution
A pond reserved for fishing, walking dogs and spending time with family has turned into an eyesore for Doris Al-Harake and other residents of Park View Estates in Stillwater.
As the City of Stillwater held meetings to prepare citizens for the up to $3 billion data center project, Al-Harake’s mother was in hospice. She had to take a
step back from monitoring the information being released from the city.
“As they (Google and its construction companies) started proceeding across the street, I was thinking, ‘Well, whatever is going to come is going to come,’”
Al-Harake said. “Once the red silt started pouring into our pond and turned it red, I said, ‘This is a sign that I need to get involved.”
Al-Harake is the president of the property’s Homeowner’s
Association. She said she began reaching out to the companies involved and nothing changed. She sought out an attorney and filed a lawsuit in Payne County district court Aug. 19, suing the four companies involved with the construction — Kipper LLC, a subsidiary of Google, Manhattan Construction Group, LLC, Olsson, Inc. and Sapp & Sons, Inc. — on behalf of the Park View Estates HOA.
See HOA on page 8A
Reflecting on Hurricane Katrina bringing NBA to Oklahoma 20 years later
Raynee Howell
Abby Morgan was one of the thousands whose lives changed when Hurricane Katrina made landfall in August 2005. Morgan was working in the marketing department of the Oklahoma State men’s basketball office. She was a business administration graduate student at OSU.
The news of Hurricane Katrina reached every corner of the world, including hers.
“It was huge national news,” Morgan said. “It obviously was a very large storm that they talked about even before it hit. It was worse, I think, than everybody expected.”
Stillwater business owner arrested on allegations of child stealing; son returned to mother’s custody
Raynee Howell CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Stillwater business owner Darrell Dougherty was arrested on allegations of child stealing, engaging in pattern of criminal offenses and obstructing an officer Aug. 28.
Dougherty, an owner of a Stillwater gas station, was being held in lieu of a $1 million bond in Payne County, a local bondsman confirmed to The O’Colly. The court records show his bond would be reduced to $250,000 upon producing the child to law enforcement. Judge Jason Reese, Payne County district judge, then permitted Dougherty to be released on the reduced bond when there was proof the child was in the mother Chelsie Conner’s custody. Conner posted to Facebook saying Dougherty took her son Aug. 20. Conner confirmed to The O’Colly that her son was returned to her Aug. 29. Dougherty was released from custody on the same day. Dougherty pled not guilty to the charges Tuesday. A preliminary hearing date will be set after he appears before the judge Sept. 19.
See KATRINA on page 3A See
on page 4A
Chance Marick
Park View Estates HOA is suing Google and other companies, claiming public nuisance, private nuisance and negligence for not preventing stormwater runoff and causing pond pollution at a neighborhood pond.
Courtesy Tulsa World Archives
Chris Paul was a guard for the New Orleans Hornets during the two seasons the team played in OKC.
Chance Marick
Darrell Dougherty is a local business owner and member of the Oklahomans for Children’s Rights organization.
Kappa Sigma removed from campus following alleged hazing violations
Raynee Howell CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The Gamma-Psi chapter of Kappa Sigma fraternity has been removed from campus following an investigation into alleged alcohol and hazing violations.
The international fraternity also pulled the chapter’s charter, which has led the fraternity for 105 years at Oklahoma State. Kappa Sigma will have the opportunity to apply for recolonization at a future date, but the fraternity and university have not yet decided when that date will be.
In the meantime, Gamma-Zeta Corporation, which owns the chapter’s
historic home, located at 1401 W. University Ave., is leasing out the property to Pi Kappa Phi Properties Gamma Upsilon for four years.
“This property lease agreement ensures the continued use and maintenance of the housing structure until such time as the Gamma-Psi (Kappa Sigma) Chapter is eligible to return,” according to a press release.
Gamma-Zeta Corporation voiced its support for the chapter. Once sanctions from both the Kappa Sigma national fraternity and OSU is lifted, the corporation will allow the chapter to move back into its home.
news.ed@ocolly.com
On This day
2002. 23 years ago.
This year’s sold-out Orange Peel should have a disclaimer: “If one is not a fan of super-slick and pristinely polished pop-a-alongs with roaring choruses and sharp, infectious musical hooks, please exercise caution.”
Members (of the Orange Peel committee) took a different approach this year, conducting a survey in The Daily O’Collegian and on the Internet through which they gained an idea of what talent would best represent the student body.
“This is the first-ever sellout,” said Orange Peel Associate Director Ashley Rowland. “A sellout is 21,500 (tickets).”
JOHN ESTUS | STAFF WRITER,
Editorial board
Co-Editors-in-Chief
Raynee Howell & Parker Gerl editorinchief@ocolly.com
Design editor Katie Lehew design.ed@ocolly.com
Social media editor
Bryson Thadhani news.ed@ocolly.com
Assistant social media editor Jose Brito news.ed@ocolly.com
Photo editor Chance Marick photo.ed@ocolly.com
Assistant photo editor Payton Little photo.ed@ocolly.com
Himalayan Grocery Store
News & Lifestyle reporters:
Rhema Coleman
Cody Garcia
Caden James
Marcus Mesis
Richard Robertson
Megan Roy
Annie Ross
Alli Themer
Olivia Upton
Aliyah Young
Sports reporters: Photographers & Designers:
Timothy Christensen Cayden Cox Gina Foster Pearson Gilliam
Luke Mazza
Sam Mitchell
Tanner Revas
Will Thorogood
Weston Wertzberger
Jace Bormann
Mykalyn Daidone
Catherine Dzanski
Andon Freitas
Connor Fuxa
Kaytlyn Hayes
Ethan Hilbert
Jonathan Jackson
Kaitlyn Robertson
Isaac Terry
Bryson Thadhani
The Oklahoma State Kappa Sigma fraternity has been removed from its house on University Avenue after exisiting on campus for 105 years.
Johnny Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls performs during Orange Peel. David Nemcok - Staff Photographer, 2002.
having about a month before preseason after the big move. For 2005-06, it posted an average record of 38-44 and 2006-07 with 39-43.
August 29, 2005
The Category 4 hurricane made landfall in New Orleans, Louisiana, reaching winds over 100 miles per hour. Its initial destruction was devastating, but the worst was yet to come.
More than 50 breaches to the New Orleans levee system contributed to the deaths of more than 1,300, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Many of the casualties were residents of the Ninth Ward — primarily a minority community that had nowhere to go or could not afford to evacuate.
Water was also flooding into the Orleans and Jefferson Parishes, moving water into Uptown, the French Quarter and the Central Business District.
The New Orleans Hornets — now the New Orleans Pelicans — couldn’t sustain an NBA season on its own turf because of the extensive damage to the city. The Ford Center, which is now the Paycom Center, became the Hornets’ new home.
A new opportunity Morgan sprung into action when she heard the news.
“I immediately jumped on board as fast as I could,” Morgan said “I started calling people, trying to get an interview, and it all happened very, very quickly. They set up an office in downtown Oklahoma City, and they asked me if I could start in two or three days.
“It was real tight turnaround.”
As someone brought up on the Oklahoma Standard, helping a team that endured something horrific was a no-brainer for Morgan. She was proud to be one of the several in the state who welcomed the New Orleans Hornets and its employees.
Morgan remembers working with major brands and local businesses. Everyone wanted to lend a hand and support was pouring in. Oklahomans became die-hard fans who were excited to experience being in a city with a professional basketball team.
“All of the local companies, all of the people here who bought season tickets and came to the games and watched the TV broadcast; all of that is what makes these teams successful, and Oklahomans — people and companies — were all there to support it,” she said. Two NBA seasons
The Hornets franchise played in Oklahoma City for two seasons. Initially
But the record is not what is remembered today. It’s the team’s perseverance.
“I remember everybody was so committed to trying to do what they could for the city,” Morgan said. “That’s why the team went back. They had to go back and support the growth of that city and help their hometown.”
The return to New Orleans
The love for New Orleans radiated off the team and stuck with Morgan. She was one of the few who traveled back to New Orleans with them.
The Hornets gave a gift back to its struggling city. All 41 home games of the 2007-08 season were played in its original New Orleans Arena. The team ended its regular season with a 56-26 record. It was its most successful season since its founding in 2002.
But the Hornets going home left Oklahoma with a missing piece. A piece no one realized was missing until the state had it.
Luckily, the Seattle Supersonics moved to Oklahoma the next year and made the Hornets’ former arena its home. Morgan couldn’t pass up the opportunity to work for an NBA team in Oklahoma again. She made some more calls and returned to Oklahoma before the team even had a name.
“When I started with the team, we didn’t have the name Thunder yet,” Morgan said. “We didn’t know what we were going to be called. We had nothing.”
Oklahoma City Thunder
The new Oklahoma team was greeted with the same support Oklahomans gave the Hornets. The Thunder was consistently a winning team but often fell short. Despite the ups and downs, the state’s sense of pride from having a local team never wavered.
OKC repaid its loyal fans and honored its roots with 2024-25 season, making it to the finals and winning it all.
Thunder’s NBA Finals championship stems from an opportunity Oklahomans took 20 years ago to help those in need.
“The whole entire story of how that happened is something they should make movies about,” Morgan said. “I would say so much of it comes from the support that the state has offered, and that’s what’s cool — the shift that this state has made from having an NBA team and the success that can even bring.”
“It’s a great place to learn who you are and make connections with people that will change your life forever.”
KEITH GARTON | DONOR
SMSC alumnus commits largest gift in program history
Bryson Thadhani SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR
Oklahoma State’s school of Media and Strategic Communications received its largest donation in program history, OSU announced Aug. 22.
The donation comes from OSU alumnus Keith Garton and his husband David Sheehan. This gift to students will establish the Garton Family Endowed Chair for Media and Strategic Communications, while also funding rural journalism initiatives and student organizations.
With the new endowed chair and funds, SMSC leaders said students will have more opportunities to report in rural communities and gain hands-on experience.
For OSU, the impact goes further than just money. University leaders said the gift will expand opportunities for students and strengthen SMSC’s ability to prepare graduates for a rapidly changing industry.
“We are immensely grateful to Keith and David for this transformative gift,” OSU President Jim Hess said. “This generous support will significantly enhance our ability to provide students with unparalleled resources and opportunities, empowering
us to continue producing top-tier professionals who will impact the industry.”
Garton grew up in Duncan and graduated from OSU with a degree in journalism and mass communication. He went on to spend decades in publishing, holding leadership roles at Scholastic, McGraw-Hill and TIME for Kids. In 2009, he launched Red Chair Press, a children’s book publisher focused on stories that promote character and positive behavior.
Even at the highest levels of media, Garton said he leaned on lessons he first learned at OSU. After the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, he helped TIME for Kids explain the tragedy to young readers. The work required balancing clarity, compassion and ethics, skills he said were sharpened during his college years.
“OSU opened my eyes to a lot of things I would never have known had I stayed in southern Oklahoma where I grew up or if I had left Oklahoma for school,” Garton said. “It’s a great place to learn who you are and make connections with people that will change your life forever. OSU was just the most comfortable place in the world to me. And it was important to give back in some way.”
news.ed@ocolly.com
Courtesy Tulsa World Archives
Hurricane Katrina forced the New Orleans Hornets to relocate to Oklahoma City.
Courtesy OSU News
Keith Garton (left) and husband David Sheehan made a large donation to Oklahoma State’s School of Media and Strategic Communications.
GLP-1 medications for weight loss cut from OSU A&M health care plan
Raynee Howell CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Employees in the OSU A&M system will no longer receive coverage for GLP-1 medications used solely for weight loss.
A recent review of the OSU A&M group employee health plan revealed the current coverage of GLP-1 medications is unsustainable and could impact other benefits on the plan. Those who are currently eligible on the plan and have prior authorization can receive coverage for the medications through Dec. 31. GLP-1 medications prescribed for FDA-approved conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes, will continue to be covered and are subject to the terms of the health care plan. For those recently prescribed a GLP-1 medication for weight loss who are working through authorization or exploring different options, the plan will not cover the cost past Oct. 1.
The OSU A&M employee group health plan is a $90-million plan covering 11,600 employees. In 2024 alone, the cost of coverage for GLP1 medications reached $2.4 million for the use of weight loss. Costs for GLP-1 medications for weight loss this year have already exceeded that and are projected to continue to increase, according to an email sent to employees of the OSU A&M system.
“Continued coverage of these medications would significantly increase the overall cost of our health plan, resulting in much higher premiums and reduced benefits for all employees,” the email stated. “To preserve the long-term sustainability of our plan and ensure we can continue offering comprehensive coverage to all employees, we have made the strategic and difficult decision to discontinue coverage.”
While Dougherty was in custody, his son was staying at the Payne County Youth Services shelter, according to a document Dougherty posted to his social media.
Dougherty shared a Facebook video outlining his experiences with the local court systems as it pertains to a custody battle with Conner hours before his arrest.
In this video, Dougherty alleges Nikki Leach, a district judge in Noble County, mishandled his civil custody case and has allowed agencies and attorneys to introduce fraud and perjury into the court. Specifically, he accused Leach of falsely retelling the court his son’s comments that were heard in judge’s chambers. Doughterty also claims alarming comments his son made to forensic interview specialists were not in any of his son’s records.
As an active member in the Oklahomans for Children’s Rights organization, Dougherty among others, signed a petition to request a grand jury in Payne County to investigate crimes against children and their families. The petition outlines allegations of fraud, perjury, cover-ups and misuse of public funds to conceal crimes against children, specifically sexual and physical abuse. The petition calls for an investigation into several agencies including Department of Human Services, Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and more. It also lists 19 individuals including Leach, Payne County Judge Michael Kulling and Payne County District Attorney Laura Thomas. The allegations of crimes against Leach mirror the allegations Dougherty made in his social media video. The allegations are failing to provide fair due process of court to families who are advocating for abuse against children and using children’s privacy laws to stop information from being discovered. news.ed@ocolly.com
Courtesy Creative Commons
receive coverage for GLP-1 medications for weight loss after Dec. 31.
Chance Marick
Darrell Dougherty pled not guilty to child stealing, engaging in pattern of criminal offenses and obstructing an officer.
Lifestyle
‘Man’s Best Friend’ caters to Sabrina Carpenter’s love of being scandalous
Sabrina Carpenter’s new album, “Man’s Best Friend” is pretty freaky... I mean, freaking good.
With wild themes and a cover you can’t show your parents, 2024’s breakout star returns in a solid, corny way. From the first listen, it is clear “Man’s Best Friend” is not family friendly. This is a different move for a pop star.
After taking over 2024, one would expect Carpenter to release simple music and reach for the biggest audience possible. Love it or hate it, “Man’s Best Friend” is not that. Carpenter and her team has committed to the freakiness that made her concerts popular over the past year. Nearly every song on “Man’s Best Friend” references hook-up culture. You could make the argument that there are no love songs on the album entirely. Not once does Sabrina truly love the guys she deals with and vice versa.
This disconnect from love makes the listener uncomfortable and takes away relatability. Most people can relate to loving someone. A lot fewer people can relate to dating rosters and one-night stands.
The subject matter is for a mature, specific audience. A lot of parents would be fine with their children listening to someone like Taylor Swift. Carpenter is a completely different story, and she wants it like that. Carpenter has doubled down on her lyrical niche: hook-up/flirt culture. She sacrificed relatability for speciality. Regardless of your values, it is a respectable move.
It may be a shame that Carpenter does not appeal to more listeners, because the music is great. People make the mistake of associating corny subject matter with a lack of talent.
“Man’s Best Friend” is definitely corny but is still good music.
Expect more concerts, surprise guests from round two of ‘The Boys From Oklahoma’
Raynee Howell CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
If you missed the boot-stompin’ four-day holiday that was “The Boys From Oklahoma” in April, don’t fret, because the boys are coming back to town.
Cody Canada, lead singer of Cross Canadian Ragweed, announced to a crowd at Baylor University’s stadium during the concert series encore that there would be a round two.
It sent shockwaves through the Red Dirt community. A feeling that hasn’t been replicated since fans saw Ragweed with their own eyes bury the hatchet and perform four shows in the biggest venue in Stillwater.
If you were in Boone Pickens Stadium on one of those nights, the thought was you may never see Ragweed again. Now, we know we haven’t seen the last of them.
Canada and Evan Felker, lead singer of the Turnpike Troubadours, teased the crowd at Baylor about a return to Stillwater, and questions filled the minds of Red Dirt fanatics everywhere, some have been answered and some still linger.
Now, if you’re Josh Crutchmer — an O’Colly alum who announced the first reunion and seems to know what’s going on months before the rest of us — you probably already know the answers. But the rest of us have been left to speculate.
Will the concert turn into concerts?
One thing Ragweed doesn’t have on its side this time: the allure of seeing a band perform together for the first time in 15 years.
Fans never thought they’d see another day where “Cross Canadian Ragweed” would be scrawled across a concert ticket, or now in their Apple Wallet. During the first presale, more than 100,000 people signed up for a code. OSU Athletics announced three more dates to meet the demand.
Will the demand remain? I think so, at least for one additional date.
of the acts — Ragweed, Turnpike, Wyatt Flores, The Great Divide or Shane Smith & The Saints have any surrounding tour dates. They’re available, and well, so are we.
Surprise guests
If seeing the pioneers of Red Dirt wasn’t enough, several surprise guests graced the stage during the first concert series. Flores, The Red Dirt Rangers, Waves in April, Parker McCollum and Dierks Bentley to name a few. My guess for round two is that there will be even more surprises.
Koe Wetzel — longtime fan of Ragweed and singer of fan-favorite song “Ragweed” — may join Ragweed on stage during round two. In an interview with “Whiskey Riff,” Canada said Wetzel’s management asked him to sing and record vocals on the song. It ultimately didn’t happen, but he voiced his support for Wetzel. Maybe it’s time Canada sings along on this one.
Stoney LaRue is not on the ticket for round two. A performance from the greats without his rendition of “Oklahoma Breakdown” is almost criminal. I hope for a surprise guest in him.
Wade Bowen is not only related to Canada through marriage, but he’s also shared many festival stages with Canada. He was in the lineup at the encore, and it only makes sense for him to have his own moment at “The Boys From Oklahoma.”
Other acts can bring out surprise guests, too. With Flores joining the group, his close friends could potentially be joining him on stage. One of note: Evan Honer.
Honer and Flores released a song together last year and have performed together recently on Flores’ Welcome Back To The Plains Tour. Their friendship is evident through recent performances and support they show each other on social media.
The album does something that is not a guarantee in pop albums: having more than three good songs. Every song has a solid theme, great execution and amazing sound design. Carpenter’s entire team, from studio musicians to mixing engineers, did a perfect job creating a soundscape to surround her.
The album is a production masterclass. In addition, the quality and variety of tracks can not be understated. For example, ‘80s dance song “Tears” and 2000s groove “When Did You Get Hot?” The songs represent and successfully execute multiple genres.
The album is retro enough to be smooth and new enough to be interesting. Ironically, this gives the album a very classy vibe. However, Carpenter has done better.
“Tears” is the only song on “Man’s Best Friend” that can compete with the three singles Carpenter released last year. Even deep cuts of her last album, like “Bed Chem” and “Juno,” are significantly better than almost any song on “Man’s Best Friend.”
There is something magical about the songs from the previous album that “Man’s Best Friend” did not capture. A rare combination of irony, catchiness and quality made those songs great. I fear a yearly Carpenter album will not be able to capture that magic.
The question is not one of talent; five great songs in a year is not a fluke. The question is time. In the future, will Carpenter’s team take the time needed to make something magical, not just great?
“Man’s Best Friend” is a raunchy album. It is also enjoyable from start to finish, a master of different genres and great music. There is no doubt “Man’s Best Friend” is a classic in her discography, but it is not the magic that made Carpenter famous. Although she can do better, we should enjoy what we have.
Once the sale opens at noon on Friday, websites will crash, people will miss out on tickets and OSU Athletics will be forced to consider adding another day.
With a quick Google search and an investigative mind, I found that none
Lastly, another Stillwater band from the late ‘90s, the All-American Rejects, should join the party. Although a different style of music, Red Dirt embraces the blend of genres. The Rejects are also returning to its roots with intimate pop-up shows at unconventional venues. Boone Pickens Stadium might not be super intimate, but it was once considered unconventional for a concert. Just ask Garth Brooks.
Richard Robertson
Courtesy Creative Commons
Sabrina Carpenter’s new album”Man’s Best Friend” is a continuation of her exploration of mature themes through her music.
Lifestyle
Anticipation in air
Greek Life members begin work on Homecoming decs
Alli Themer STAFF REPORTER
Anticipation is in the air as preparation for America’s Greatest Homecoming is underway.
Shovels broke ground outside of Greek houses last Thursday, and excitement broke out alongside it. The annual Homecoming groundbreaking is a literal breaking of ground, allowing the building of Homecoming “decs” to begin.
Decs include intricate designs and mechanical components, which require hours upon hours of welding and pomping.
Steely Thomas, a sophomore in Chi Omega, said balancing time to work on the decs during the fall semester can seem daunting and impossible at times. She said taking the first half of the week to work on homework and pomping later in the week helps her better manage the time commitment. Pomping is placing tissue paper in chicken wire to form an image. It began with Panhellenic sororities decorating their front doors for Homecoming. The decorating tradition extended to Greek row and residential halls, and by the 1950s, rather than decorating doors, Homecoming decs were built.
“It is so fulfilling to watch
thousands of people ‘Ooo’ and ‘Awe’ at what we have been working on for 10 weeks, it gives you a warm feeling inside... seeing the streets literally packed with people during walkaround helps you realize why you did this for weeks,” Thomas said.
“It’s a one-of-a-kind feeling.”
Walkaround — an annual event where more than 75,000 thousand take to the streets to view the Homecoming decs — will take place Oct. 17.
Jackson Ramsey, a freshman member of the FarmHouse fraternity, said that he is excited to see hard work come to fruition during Walkaround.
“I’ve been coming to OSU Homecoming for years now, and this is the first year I’ll be able to experience the effort that goes into all of these amazing displays,” Ramsey said.
Groundbreaking not only starts the building of Homecoming decs, but it’s the building of community and relationships at Oklahoma State for some.
“It would not be ‘America’s Greatest Homecoming’ if OSU students, teachers, parents, benefactors and community didn’t put their full heart into it,” Thomas said. “The people at OSU really make OSU’s Homecoming America’s Greatest.”
news.ed@ocolly.com
From Marvel success to sold-out Broadway shows
to perform at McKnight
series — an effort to bring theatre to rural areas.
Whether you are a musical lover or marvel fanatic, the opening night of McKnight Center’s season will be a treat.
Emmy, grammy, primetime winner and two-time Tony award-winning actor and singer Hugh Jackman will grace the stage and perform several songs, from his well-known productions, to a sold-out crowd.
Expect to sway in the crowd to some of Jackman’s greatest hits, from the cobblestone streets of France to a show-stopping early 1900s carnival. Other well-known hits from his performance include “The Boy from Oz,” and “The Music Man.” This event is apart of McKnight’s Broadway Stars
Jackman was born in Sydney, Australia in 1968. On his final day of school at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, he was offered a breakout, as well as starring role, in the Australian TV series “Corelli.” His most well-known role today is Wolverine in the Marvel Comic Universe movie series “Wolverine.” The Greatest Showman is here, but the greatest act of all is getting a frontrow seat. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the performance begins at 6 p.m. Sept. 12. If you couldn’t secure a ticket, the show will be simulcast to the outdoor plaza on the 32-foot LED wall. Bring a blanket or chair and some friends and enjoy Jackman’s talents for free.
news.ed@ocolly.com
ACHIEVEMENTS
TONY - 2004
Best Actor in Musical
EMMY - 2005
Outstanding Performance in a Variety or Music Program
TONY - 2004
Special Tony Award for Lifetime Acheivements
GOLDEN GLOBE - 2013
Best Actor in a Motion Picture
GRAMMY - 2019
Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for Visual Media
File Photo
Alumni and students walk the Greek neighborhood to enjoy the Homecoming decs.
Brianna Bergin STAFF REPORTER Hugh Jackman
Courtesy Ben Watts
Hugh Jackman is opening the McKnight Center for Performing Arts season.
Lifestyle
Classic tailgating tips, tricks
Marcus Mesis STAFF REPORTER
The college football season is here and tailgates have started.
Tailgating can feel daunting. Here are some tips and tricks for your first tailgate from the pros.
The first element of a good tailgate is food. A good tailgate has one of two things: lots of snacks or lots of cooked food. One tailgater suggested cooking bratwurst, hot dogs or fajitas.
“Fajitas... they’re easy to cook and inexpensive to cook a lot of,” said tailgater John Alfred.
Alfred has been tailgating at Oklahoma State games for 26 years. Other foods that were suggested were chicken and ribs. The slow cooker allows the tailgaters to enjoy other festivities.
“Cook chicken or ribs,” tailgater Robin Ventura said. “Not hot dogs or hamburgers, never (have we made those foods) in my 15 years (of tailgating).”
Places around town are also an option to visit during a tailgate or game day. Some suggested local favorites.
“The hotshots are (the) best spots to go,” Paul Lewis said. “Eskimo Joe’s, Hideaway, campus corner.”
Activities are also a huge part of tailgating. Most tailgaters have TVs to watch the game or tickets to go to the game, but it’s more about gathering with friends. Cornhole and catch are popular games at tailgates.
Having fun is a priority, but so is staying safe and having a successful tailgate. Ventura and other tailgaters recommended staying hydrated and planning ahead.
“It’s all about planning stuff two or three days ahead” Alfred said. “Bring more trash bags than you think you need... way more, and just be welcoming.”
TRUST THE LORD! (Part #1)
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.” (Jn.14:1 NIV)
Jesus had just told his disciples of his betrayal. He also told to them of his leaving and they could not go with him. I am sure that it seemed to the disciples that everything was “caving in, falling apart.” The future seemed so uncertain. Then Jesus speaks these words; DON’T BE TROUBLED; TRUST ME!
Jesus tells them that he is going to the Father (God) and in his house there is plenty of room. He tells them that he is going to make a place for them all and he will return to take them there. As we look around us there is much uncertainty about this planet that we live on; safety is a premium, and what about when death comes? What is going to happen to you and me? Many are betting on losing consciousness and never
awakening. They live on that assumption. However, Jesus tells us all are going to experience a resurrection from the dead; some to everlasting life and others to be condemned . (Jn.5:28-29, Dan.12:2)
Again, the Lord Jesus makes things clear to his followers: “I am going to my Father’s house to prepare a place for you. I will return to get you and take you to be with me.” when asked about the way to this wonderful place, Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (Jn.14:6) No wonder he declares plainly; don’t be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me.
Jesus has prepared a place and is the way to God’s wonderful place. Let’s trust and follow him, and lay up treasure there. It is a sure place promised by the Lord Jesus himself. He will not fail us; so shall we ever be with the Lord! (1 Thess.4:17-18)
Payton Little
Connor Fuxa
Activities and games are a huge part of tailgates at OSU.
Connor Fuxa
Bryson Thadhani
Musician plays outside of End Zone to celebrate a new season of OSU football.
Connor Fuxa
Payton Little
Friends and family gather at tailgates to celebrate football season through games, food and good times.
Cooking for a tailgate is a team sport.
Furry friends join in on the tailgate fun.
Outside of the Seretean Center, tailgaters smoke meat, vegetables and side dishes for all to enjoy.
Public nuisance, private nuisance and negligence for not preventing the damage with proper runoff control devices are the claims in the lawsuit. The companies involved were required to submit an erosion and sediment control plan to prevent or reduce impacts to adjacent properties. Olsson, Inc. submitted and signed a permit in July 2024, requesting to install stormwater pollution prevention devices and commence mass grading of the first phase of the project — located at the intersection of Perkins and Richmond roads.
In August 2024 engineers from the city of Stillwater issued a grading permit, which set requirements including the prohibition of runoff from the property and the implementation of management practices to control movement of slit and sentiment.
Months later, Al-Harake and her neighbors saw the first sign of red dirt entering the pond, shortly after mass grading commenced. Gayla Dollar, 41-year resident of Park View, looked up one day and realized the nature across the street from her home was gone.
“They mowed it down or bulldozed everything,” Dollar said. “Down to the trees, everything within two days. I’m thinking, ‘Where did all those poor animals go?’”
The HOA members in the neighborhood also pay dues for amenities, including the pond. Al-Harake said members have been paying for 50 years to keep the pond maintained, from mowing around it to restocking it with fish.
The recent runoff has killed off fish, brought in vultures and ran off the land wildlife, she said.
“They cannot destroy our property for them to have enough for whatever they’re doing over there,” Al-Harake said. “We used to have goslings, and a white crane, and it’s no longer there. The deer used to drink from there, and they’re not there.”
The lawsuit states “Defendants failed, neglected and/or refused to stop the massive and unabated flow
of stormwater runoff from the project onto Park View Estates.”
Al-Harake is concerned the damage won’t end here. The data center could construct up to six centers in the future.
“They have not even officially broken ground for this Google data center,” Al-Harake said. “They’re just clearing it, and they’ve already destroyed our land.”
Dollar is in support of the HOA lawsuit and said the companies need to figure out how to fix what it has damaged. She said the data center will cause harm to not only her neighborhood, but other parts of the city. One area of concern: Boomer Lake Park.
The pond overflows into Boomer Cove, a part of Boomer Lake, when it floods, Al-Harake said. In May, rain caused the pond’s water, full of red dirt and silt, to travel into Boomer Lake. She said the pond is stagnant and
doesn’t alleviate the red dirt settling, while Boomer Lake utilizes its moving water.
The City of Stillwater is aware of the situation, but will not comment on the lawsuit.
“The City of Stillwater is not a party to this lawsuit and will not comment on the litigation,” said Dawn Dodson, Stillwater’s chief public relations officer. “In our role as the regulatory authority, we continue to monitor the project and coordinate with the contractor and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality to ensure appropriate protections are in place.”
Dodson said the contractor has taken additional steps to help safeguard surrounding areas, such as Boomer Lake.
Dollar said the city should be thanking the HOA for voicing their concerns.
“If we had not called their attention to it, Boomer Lake would be orange now,” Dollar
“They can do that little pond in front of the library orange anytime they want, but not our pond.”
GAYLA DOLLAR | PARK VIEW ESTATES RESIDENT
said. “We’ve still obviously got run off. Our pond is as orange as it can be. And do I love orange? Yes, we are OSU all the way.
“They can do that little pond in front of the library orange anytime they want, but not our pond.”
The pond is also special to some homeowners who know its historical significance.
During the Land Run, the area was considered Booth No. 1 — a temporary registration office for the property race. There’s a historical marker on the southside of the pond.
Beyond the history, it’s a place where residents
like Dollar and Al-Harake expected to retire and enjoy nature close to city life. Now, they feel as though that vision is being destroyed.
“We bought it as our home that we were going to live in, and my husband was going to retire in, and we were going to always have this as a home base for the grandchildren,” Al-Harake said. “And it bothers me now that I’m fighting a legal battle to have part of the properties that we own out here return to its natural beauty, instead of enjoying my free time with my grandchildren.”
news.ed@ocolly.com
Chance Marick
HOA members in the Park View Estates neighborhood pay dues for amenities, and the pond is included. Dues have kept the pond maintained for 50 years from mowing around it to restocking it with fish.
Friday, September 5, 2025
Underdogs
Bryan McCoy Jr. has seen the projections. He also doesn’t care too much for them.
Several outlets have picked Oklahoma State as one of the biggest underdogs of the weekend in its game against Oregon on
Saturday. The Ducks, the No. 6-ranked squad in the country, are the Cowboys’ best opponent of the season on paper and have elite talent on both sides of the football.
OSU knows it’s not expected to be able to hang with Oregon. But rather than using those expectations as added motivation, the Cowboys are steering clear of
all the outside talk.
“There really is nothing else to say about it,” OSU linebacker Bryan McCoy Jr. said. “We wear orange and they wear green. I’m not really going to put any name to it. They will watch film, we will watch film, and we’re going to play football.”
Flores to be QB1 in Eugene
Parker Gerl CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Autzen Stadium is expected to be rowdy. Zane Flores is expected to be cool, calm and collected. Oklahoma State (1-0) is set to square off with No. 6 Oregon (1-0) in Eugene on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT. Flores is in line to make his first-career start at quarterback after Hauss Hejny suffered a broken bone in his left foot against UT Martin.
The Ducks boast one of the best defenses in the country and have only lost six regular-season games in the past three seasons. They’re a tough matchup for any quarterback, especially for one who’s had limited playing time. But the Cowboys are confident that Flores, best described as laid-back and focused, won’t be bothered by the pressure.
See FLORES on page 2B
Sam Mitchell STAFF REPORTER
When the Oklahoma State football game kicks off Saturday in Eugene, Oregon, Mike Gundy will be coaching his 32nd game against an AP top 10 team. The Oregon Ducks, who won the Big 10 last season, are currently ranked No. 6 in the AP poll after being ranked No. 7 in the preseason.
“They’re a good football team…,” Gundy said. “I think they’re well coached. They’re spending a lot of money. They’ve put a lot into that organization, and you can see they’re a good football team.”
This “good football team” will be the Cowboys’ first true test, and arguably their biggest test, of the season. Not only is it a true road game, but it’s also a road game against an Oregon team looking to go even further than they did last year.
In his time coaching OSU, Gundy is 11-20 against top 10 teams and 5-4 since 2018.
However, this isn’t the first Gundy team to take on a top 10 team. Gundy coached his first game against a top 10 team in 2005, losing 47-28 at home to No. 2 Texas.
Bryson Thadhani
Oklahoma State is one of the biggest betting underdogs of the weekend in its game against Oregon.
Payton Little
Mike Gundy and OSU have beaten five Top 10 teams since the 2018 season.
Payton Little
Zane Flores is stepping in for the injured Hauss Hejny, who broke a bone in his left foot last week.
spreads for OSU’s games.
the biggest underdog OSU has been under Gundy in a non-conference game, according to BetMGM.
“He needs to go out and do what he’s done all of his life,” OSU coach Mike Gundy said. “Play quarterback, go out and play hard, have fun and compete. And our coaches need to put him in a good position.”
Flores has waited for this opportunity.
The Gretna, Nebraska, native took a redshirt in his freshman season in 2023 and didn’t see any playing time. Last season, he suffered a stress fracture in his left foot, which ended his season in October.
“He doesn’t get riled up too much,” Gundy said. “You don’t hear him a lot. (He) doesn’t get too high, (or) too low. Pretty laid back.” Flores’ game is different from Hejny’s. Against UT Martin, OSU fans got a glimpse of how dangerous Hejny is with his legs, watching him run for 27 yards on four carries and punch in a 6-yard rushing touchdown before his injury.
Flores can extend plays, too, just not quite to the degree of Hejny, who possesses a bit more speed. Flores, more of a traditional pocket passer, can put zip on the football and make tough throws all across the field.
ESPN currently lists the Ducks as a 27.5-point favorite over OSU, one of the largest point differentials across its platform. Oregon is also the Cowboys’ first top-10 opponent since the 2023 season, when they lost to No. 7 Texas in the Big 12 Championship game.
The Ducks are a juggernaut and have been a stout force since coach Dan Lanning arrived in 2022. Under Lanning, Oregon is 36-6 overall, has won a Big Ten Championship and has appeared in the College Football Playoffs.
The talent pool under Lanning has been deep, too. At least six Ducks have been selected in each of the past three NFL drafts, including 10 in 2025, a program record.
“(We are essentially) going up against players that people would think are comparable to the best organizations in the country at this time,” OSU coach Mike Gundy said. “We’re aware of that. I don’t think that there’s any secret that they have really good players, but I feel like our players will be excited to compete.”
Saturday’s matchup with Oregon is
The Cowboys have only been bigger underdogs against Big 12 opponents: Vince Young’s 2005 Texas team was a 36.5-point favorite and beat OSU 47-28. In 2014, the Cowboys were 32.5-point underdogs against Baylor, a game the Bears won 49-28.
Based on Gundy’s words, he probably didn’t know how large the point differential was for those games. He also isn’t diving deep into projections for Saturday’s game.
“I’ve never paid attention to them,” Gundy said. “That was by design. Now, you can’t avoid it because if you’re just watching a game, they’re running at the bottom of the TV. But I’ve never been aware of spreads. I never pay much attention to them.”
OSU isn’t expected to win, let alone compete, with Oregon. But Cowboy players know they still get four 15-minute quarters to try and pull off an upset.
“We go into the game just like we would any other game,” OSU wide receiver Terrill Davis said. “We prepare the same. We go into every game thinking we’re going to win. So, that’s my goal… We work hard, so I know we got a chance.”
vs. cowboy Gameday
WHEN: Saturday, 2:30 p.m. CT WHERE: Autzen Stadium TV: CBS, Paramount+ RADIO: SirusXM 389 SERIES: 1-0, Oregon LAST MEETING: 2008 — Oregon 42, OSU 31
It wasn’t until last week that Flores made his collegiate debut when he stepped in for the injured Hejny after the game’s first three series. Flores played the rest of the way and went 13-of-20 passing for 136 yards with no touchdowns or turnovers. He didn’t carry the OSU offense, but made good decisions with the football and helped it stay afloat.
That was at Boone Pickens Stadium, though, a place Flores was familiar with. On Saturday, he will enter the Ducks’ home field as a near 30-point underdog with the Cowboys’ offense on his shoulders.
The magnitude of the opponent and its expected hostile crowd aren’t ideal for a quarterback making his first-career start. But Flores isn’t one to get shaken up, according to his OSU teammates and coaches, and they don’t expect that to change against Oregon.
Against the Skyhawks, Flores’ best pass was to wide receiver Terrill Davis: a deep ball up the sideline, good for 41 yards. Davis said Flores’ pass was “perfect.”
“He’s so level-headed,” Davis said. “He’s a great leader, and you can just tell (how he is) in practice. Like, he goes out there and just does the job.”
With Flores’ inexperience, the Ducks could play a heavy box on defense to take away the Cowboys’ rushing attack and force Flores to be precise and effective through the air. They’ll look to put him in tough situations and make a mistake.
But Flores’ OSU teammates know his demeanor and know his abilities. They’re confident in both and are looking to take the pressure off him.
“I think he’s fine,” Cowboys running back Kalib Hicks said. “... I think we just need to help him and get the run game going. I know he’ll be fine and he’ll be calm.”
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Continued from 1
In 2008, Gundy would get his first top 10 win at No. 3 Missouri, beating the Tigers 28-23. At the time, Missouri was still in the Big 12. This was also the first season a Gundy team would be ranked.
By Gundy’s fifth season in 2010, he was 1-7 against top 10 teams. Most of those losses came to Texas and Oklahoma.
In 2011, Gundy’s team dominated, ending the season ranked No. 3, with some believing the Cowboys should have been playing for a national championship. After an early season win at No. 8 Texas A&M, the Cowboys would beat No. 4 Stanford in the Fiesta Bowl. The win against the Cardinals was Gundy’s first nonconference top 10 win.
In 2013, Gundy would again coach against a top 10 Missouri team. This time, however, the SEC team would beat the Cowboys 41-31 in the Cotton Bowl.
In 2014, Gundy and his team opened their season in a neutral site game against preseason No. 1 Florida State. The Cowboys lost 37-31.
In 2015, Gundy coached
three games against top 10 teams. The first, a win over TCU, was followed by two losses, one to No. 10 Baylor and the other against No. 5 Oklahoma. By the end of Gundy’s tenth year as head coach, his record against top 10 teams was 5-13. Now, 10 years later, Gundy’s record against top 10 teams is 11-20, the most recent being a blowout loss to Texas in the 2023 Big 12 Championship game. Most of Gundy’s top 10 games have been against conference opponents, with only four of Gundy’s 31 games against top 10 opponents being non-conference games. Gundy is 2-2 in those games. None of those games were a true road game like Saturday’s game against Oregon, however. Additionally, each of those games included a ranked Cowboys team. This time, Gundy will be leading a team hoping to recover from last year’s 3-9 campaign into a hostile environment. Gundy has won the big games before, but most of the time it’s been two powerhouses at play. This time, when Gundy steps onto the field, the Cowboys will be heavy underdogs.
Payton Little
Mike
Chance Marick
Zane Flores has attempted 20 collegiate passes for 136 yards.
Chance Marick
Mike Gundy’s most recent win against a top 10 team was in 2023 against No. 9 Oklahoma.
Cowboy tennis releases fall schedule
Allyn Orndorff STAFF REPORTER
Oklahoma State’s men’s tennis team released its fall schedule. Head coach Dustin Taylor announced that the Cowboys will host two events at the Greenwood Tennis Center.
The individual side of the competition for the Cowboys starts on Sep. 12 with the UTR Tulsa event and ends with the NCAA Individual Championships starting on Nov. 18 in Orlando, Florida.
September begins the rounds for the Cowboys as they start in Nebraska for the UTR PTT Lincoln and in Arkansas for the Fayetteville M15 events on the 15. The main event of the month is the ITA All-American Championships back in Tulsa. The Cowboys will end the month in Norman for the UTR PPT Norman event on Sept. 29-Oct. 3.
October does not cool down for the Cowboys, as a group will go up to Norman for the ITA Central Regional Championships starting Oct. 8-12. They will head back to Lincoln for the Lincoln ATP 75 from Oct. 13-20. To top off the month, the Cowboys head to College Station for the UTR PTT College Station on Oct. 27-Nov. 2.
November contains the longest trips of the fall season, with a far journey up to Ann Arbor, Michigan for the ITA Sectional Championships starting on Nov. 9. At the same time, another group of Cowboys will travel west to Sand Diego, California for the ITA Conference Masters.
The Greenwood Tennis Center will host a couple tournaments, including the Cowboy Classic on Nov. 5-9, and the UTR PTT Stillwater on Nov. 1014. The Cowboys will split up and head to Austin and Waco, Texas for the Austin M25 and the UTR PTT Waco events on Nov. 17. All the Qualifying Cowboys will head to Orlando, Florida for the NCAA individual Championships on Nov. 18-23.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
COWBOY TENNIS FALL SCHEDULE
UTR Tulsa: Sept. 12-14 (Tulsa, OK)
UTR PTT Lincoln: Sept. 15-18 (Lincoln, NE)
Fayetteville M15: Sept. 15-21 (Fayetteville, AR)
ITA All-American Championships: Sept. 20-28 (Tulsa, OK)
UTR PTT Norman: Sept. 29-Oct. 3 (Norman, OK)
ITA Central Regional Championships: Oct. 8-12 (Norman, OK)
Lincoln ATP 75: Oct. 13-20 (Lincoln, NE)
UTR PTT College Station: Oct. 27-Nov. 2 (College Station, TX)
ITA Sectional Championships: Nov. 6-9 (Ann Arbor, MI)
ITA Conference Masters: Nov. 6-9 (San Diego, CA)
Cowboy Classic: Nov. 7-9 (Stillwater, OK)
UTR PTT Stillwater: Nov. 10-4 (Stillwater, OK)
Austin M25: Nov. 17-23 (Austin, TX)
UTR PTT Waco: Nov. 17-23 (Waco, TX)
NCAA Individual Championships: Nov. 18-23 (Orlando, FL)
OSU softball announces fall schedule
which features six games at Cowgirl Stadium and a quick trip to Kansas.
Oklahoma State softball fans now have a better idea of when they’ll get to watch the Cowgirls in the fall.
Arkansas on Oct. 4 — with first pitch set to be determined — and a matchup with Wichita State in Kansas. Entry to each of OSU’s home fall games is free and open to the public. Here’s a look at the entire schedule. Parker
On Monday, OSU softball announced its entire fall schedule,
OSU’s first fall game will be held on Sept. 23 against USA Softball U-19 at Cowgirl Stadium. That game is set for 7 p.m. The Cowgirls’ fall schedule also includes a doubleheader against
sports.ed@ocolly.com
COWGIRL SOFTBALL SCHEDULE
Sept. 23: vs USA Softball U-19, 7 p.m. (Stillwater)
Oct. 3: vs McLennan JC, 6 p.m. (Stillwater)
Oct. 4: vs Arkansas (DH), time TBD (Stillwater)
Oct. 7: vs USAO, 7 p.m. (Stillwater)
Oct. 14: vs Seminole State, 7 p.m. (Stillwater)
Oct. 16: vs Wichita State, 6 p.m. (Wichita, KS)
Oct. 22: vs Garden City CC, 6:30 p.m. (Stillwater)
Chance Marick Cowgirl softball has seven fall events scheduled.
Shots from OSU-UT MArtin
Payton Little
Quinton Stewert celebrates with running back Sesi Vailahi.
Chance Marick
Sesi Vailahi and Josh Ford celebrate after a play.
Payton Little
Landyn Cleveland, Iman Oates and Jacobi Oliphant Jr. celebrate with fans.
Connor Fuxa Zane Flores preparing to catch a snap.
Chance Marick
Bullet runs on the field after a touchdown.
Payton Little
Hauss Heiny scores a rushing touchdown.
Chance Marick Jaleel Johnson chases UT quarterback Jase Bauer.
Connor Fuxa
Oklahoma State fans sing along to the alma mater.
Chance Marick
Kenneth Harris and Chandarian Bradley high five after a play.
Cowgirl golf opens season, looks ahead to fall classic
Gina Foster STAFF REPORTER
The Cowgirl golf team concluded its season-opening tournament with a 16-over par for a third-place podium finish at the Caramel Cup in California.
After a difficult second round, Oklahoma State rallied back to shoot the lowest round in the final 18 for a successful beginning to the fall.
“For the start, I think we did very very well,” coach Annie Young said. “We had a rough second day, and so it was interesting to see how well they were going to bounce back, and they bounced back really nice. Anytime you can have the low round, you’ve done a good job.”
Young said the team did a great job when facing adversity.
Ellie Bushnell excelled throughout the weekend and placed seventh with a 1-under score. Grace Kilcrease, the 2024 Carmel Cup champion, carded rounds of 70, 75 and 73 to finish in 12th place.
Marta Silchenko shot a 69 in her final round for a 4-over finish and tied for 16th. Lucy Darr wasn’t far behind as she tied for 23rd at 6-over par.
Freshman Yu-Chu Chen made her way into the lineup and carded rounds of 79, 74 and 76 to tie for 41st. Summer Lee followed with a 15-over score to tie for 46th.
“She (Chen) is a very very good golfer,” Young said. “She struggled a little bit early on, but I think she started to find her game toward the end of the tournament. I think she’s going to be a big part of what we’re
doing moving forward.”
The third round could have had a different outcome, but Young said the team’s attitudes throughout the week helped its success in the third round.
“I think that made a big difference for them” Young said. It just tells them, one, that they can play with anybody, but I still have it, after a rough day, that I can bounce back.”
While all teams practice for perfection, the continuation of this positive attitude will help them when they face adversity again.
As Young has transitioned from assistant coach to the head coaching position, she said the team has adjusted well to her more hands-on approach. She said she is continuing to learn what works best for each player and ensure they feel supported. The team is requested to show up as they are and to know the work will be done together as a family.
Postseason play in the spring holds the most weight, but it all begins with the preparation in the fall. Young said improving each week and enhancing the team’s depth is the goal for the fall, although bigger goals will come with the postseason.
“I’m just excited about these girls,” Young said. “I think they’ve come with a really good attitude and excitement for the season. They work really hard, and so I’m excited to see how much they’re going to grow this year.”
The Cowgirls will continue their season as they compete in the Schooner Fall Classic in Norman beginning Sept. 20.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Cowboys finish second in Pebble Beach Carmel Cup
Peyton Steward STAFF REPORTER
The Oklahoma State football team wasn’t the only program to kickoff last weekend.
While Boone Pickens Stadium was filled with fans eager to watch the Cowboys on the gridiron, another Cowboy squad was making some noise thousands of miles away. The OSU men’s golf team opened its 202526 campaign in California, competing in the Carmel Cup at the Hill Golf Course in Pebble Beach, California.
OSU was ranked No. 1 in the nation in the preseason polls, fresh off winning the program’s 12th national championship last spring. That title also marked the second national crown under head coach Alan Bratto, who has built on OSU’s long-standing reputation as one of the premier golf programs in the country.
In California, the Cowboys showed early signs that they are ready to contend again in 2025. Although the team’s streak of five consecutive tournament victories came to an end, OSU still delivered an impressive performance, finishing in second place in a loaded field of competition.
OSU wants to be ‘more physical,’ establish run game against Oregon
Parker Gerl CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
After Oklahoma State football earned a 20-point win in its season opener against UT Martin, coach Mike Gundy said the Cowboys “weren’t very good” on offense.
Why? Because they were inefficient in their rushing attack and struggled to create explosive plays on the ground.
“When you can’t establish a running game, it’s difficult to score,” Gundy said. “I just didn’t feel like we rushed the ball very well.”
Improving its running game is crucial for OSU ahead of Saturday’s game against Oregon, which boasts one of the country’s top defenses.
The Cowboys don’t sense they need a drastic change to their approach, but rather an increase in intensity and a focus on creating openings.
Against UT Martin, Kalib Hicks handled the majority of the rushing workload and picked up 56 yards on 21 carries. He often had to try to slither his way in between tackles or get outside and make defenders miss, as the Cowboys’ offensive line struggled to open up running lanes.
Sesi Vailahi and Freddie Brock IV were also featured in the run game: Vailahi ran for 32 yards and a touchdown, while Brock stayed at zero yards on three rushes, a product of the lack of open space.
OSU also put up a team-wide 127 rushing yards on 42 attempts, good for 3 yards per carry. Gundy said postgame he wants that average to be closer to “four-and-a-half.”
The Cowboys’ offensive line features several players who transferred in during the offseason and are playing together for the first time. But Gundy doesn’t think their
lack of experience in OSU’s system is an obstacle; they just need to win more in the trenches.
“It’s not a scheme or a concept issue,” Gundy said. “We just weren’t very physical. We gotta be a little more physical and find a way to create space.”
Hicks could be in line to receive another heavy workload in Eugene, Oregon. Gundy said Monday he is unsure if running back Rodney Fields Jr., who entered the season as a potential key piece to the offense, would be available to play.
Fields also missed the seasonopener with an undisclosed injury.
Hicks reviewed the Cowboys’ rushing performance against UT Martin and sees a fix. He said he needs to slash the gaps harder and be more decisive with his decisions.
“I just need to start out faster,” Hicks said. “Absolutely faster. I think some things (that) I missed, for myself, were maybe just missing the hole or (not) hitting a hole faster.”
The Skyhawks played a heavy box against OSU’s offense to limit damage in the run game and force the Cowboys’ young quarterbacks to pass the football — another cause for OSU’s limited rushing attack.
And on Saturday, Oregon could potentially use the same strategy against the inexperienced Zane Flores, who’s expected to make his first-career start at quarterback after Hauss Hejny broke a bone in his left foot against UT Martin.
Hicks is confident the Cowboys can counter the Ducks’ approach, though, and find ways to open up the offense.
“If they stack the box, we can throw it,” Hicks said. “And if they don’t, we run it. I think that for our team, whatever is open, we’ll take it.”
sports.ed@ocolly.com
The Cowboys have now finished first or second in 11 of their last 12 starts.
One of the biggest bright spots was star Ethan Fang, who tied for the individual title with Oklahoma’s Jase Summy.
The Cowboys entered the final round of play 15 shots behind Vanderbilt before posting a 7-under 353 at the par-72 layout to finish three shots off pace of the commodores.
OSU junior Eric Lee also earned a top 10, posting his second-consecutive 70 to stand at 211 and tie for ninth place. Preston Stout also carded a 70.
For OSU, the Carmel Cup was more than just a tune-up. Competing at a venue like Spyglass Hill is an opportunity to test their skills against some of the nation’s best programs while also preparing for the spring championship season.
With a strong start already in the books, OSU looks poised for another potential championship run. The season is long, and tougher tests lie ahead, but the early signs suggest that the Cowboys remain firmly on course to add to their storied legacy. sports.ed@ocolly.com
Juan DeLeon/Juan DeLeon Creative
Ellie Bushnell placed seventh at the Caramel Cup.
Payton Little Kalib Hicks could receive another heavy rushing workload against Oregon.
Week 2 Big 12 power rankings
Weston Wertzberger STAFF REPORTER
Each Big 12 team has now played a game (or two) with Week 1 of College Football in the history books.
Most teams had cupcake games to start the season, while a few faced competitive opponents. Overall, the Big 12 in Week 1 looked solid, going 13-3 overall.
As Week 2 approaches, here’s where everyone stacks up in The O’Colly’s Big 12 Conference power rankings.
No. 1: Arizona State (AP No. 12; 1-0)
The Sun Devils’ 38-19 win over Northern Arizona may not look like anything special. Still, the defending conference champions look like a real threat after Sam Leavitt threw for four touchdowns.
ASU now heads to Mississippi State after beating the Bulldogs at home last season.
No. 2: Iowa State (AP No. 16; 2-0, 1-0 Big 12)
Coming off its best season in program history, the Cyclones look solid after an impressive fifth-straight win over Kansas State in Ireland and a blowout victory over South Dakota to start 2-0.
No. 3: Texas Tech (AP No. 24; 1-0)
The Red Raiders’ offense look back in business after a 67-7 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff, including a four-touchdown performance by quarterback Behron Morton.
No. 4: Utah (AP No. 25; 1-0)
The Utes looked like a fierce force against their former Pac12 rival, UCLA, with a 43-10 beatdown. Quarterback Devon Dampier showed out in his Utah debut, completing better than 80% passes with two passing touchdowns and a rushing TD.
No. 5: TCU (1-0)
The Horned Frogs were the only Big 12 team with a win against a nonconference power-four opponent and looked like the most dominant team of the week after embarrassing North Carolina 48-14 on Monday night. Josh Hoover completed 75% of his passes with two touchdowns.
No. 6: BYU (1-0)
The Cougars had the largest margin of victory in the country against a mediocre Portland State team, achieving a 69-0 shutout win. Three quarterbacks saw action, with Bear Bachmeier scoring three touchdowns. BYU might roll out multiple quarterbacks again as big favorites against Stanford at home.
No. 7: Kansas (2-0)
The Jayhawks have settled well into their rebranded stadium with two blowout wins over Fresno State and Wagner. Quarterback Jalon Daniels already has seven touchdowns so far.
After a 14-year hiatus, the Border War between KU and Missouri finally returns, with the two schools facing each other as nonconference opponents for the first time in Columbia.
No. 8: Baylor (0-1)
Quarterback Sawyer Robertson had a phenomenal start to the season with 419 passing yards and three touchdowns against SEC foe Auburn, but the Bears’ defense couldn’t do enough in its 38-24 loss at home on Friday night.
The road doesn’t get easier for Baylor with a trip to the Dallas area for a game against SMU.
No. 9: Kansas State (1-1, 0-1 Big 12)
The Wildcats are lucky to be 1-1 after almost getting stunned at
home by FCS opponent North Dakota in a 38-35 shootout. Their defense was a significant issue after allowing 354 total yards, but Avery Johnson looked solid for K-State, completing 318 passing yards and throwing three touchdowns.
No. 10: Arizona (1-0)
The Wildcats looked strong against Hawaii with QB-RB duo Noah Fifita and Qunicy Craig each getting at least 100 yards and a touchdown in their 40-6 dub win against Hawaii.
No. 11: West Virginia (1-0)
Things looked shaky for the Mountaineers at halftime against Robert Morris with only a 10-3 lead, but quarterback Nicco Marchol was nearly perfect all game long and helped WVU coast to a 45-3 win.
WVU will head west to face mid-major opponent Ohio, which narrowly fell short against Big Ten foe Rutgers last week.
No. 12: Colorado (0-1)
Despite having the spotlight on primetime Friday night, the Buffaloes struggled with three turnovers and couldn’t capitalize in the end against Georgia Tech, losing 27-20. Colorado had a chance for a tie before time management ruined those chances.
The Buffaloes will remain at home against FBS newcomer Delaware on Saturday.
No. 13: Cincinnati (0-1)
The Bearcats have lost six straight games dating back to last season after falling short against Nebraska, 20-17, with a game-losing interception by Brendan Sorsby in the final minute.
Cincy has a chance to bounce back in the coming weeks with games against Bowling Green and Northwestern State.
No. 14: Houston (1-0)
The Connor Weigman experience has officially arrived in Houston. He threw for touchdowns in the 27-0 season-opener shutout over Stephen F. Austin.
No. 15: Oklahoma State (1-0)
The nine-game losing streak for the Cowboys is officially over, but OSU is now left without its No. 1 quarterback. The offense was rolling in the first quarter before Hauss Hejny got injured, and production slowed down a bit after Zane Flores took over. Still, the Cowboys eased past UT Martin, 27-7. OSU is now in a daunting task against No. 6 Oregon on the road for its most challenging game of the season.
No. 16: UCF (1-0)
The Knights were on the doorstep of potentially being upset against Jacksonville State in Scott Frost’s first game back as UCF’s head coach. After trailing by seven entering the fourth quarter, the Knights avoided an upset loss and came out with a win.
It was an ugly win against a mid-major program, but the Knights will be treated to a home game against FCS opponent North Carolina A&T.
Bryson Thadhani
Sam Leavitt and Arizona State are an early favorite to go back to the Big 12 Championship game.
One of the returning seniors on Dan Lanning’s defense, Uiagalelei has proven that he can live in the backfield. He had 10.5 sacks a season ago and constantly pressures the opposing quarterback. He brought down Montana State’s quarterback twice as the Ducks cruised to 14 tackles for loss. With his experience coming off the edge, Uiagalelei has positioned himself as one of Oregon’s best defenders. With OSU still blending its offensive line together, watch for Uiagaleli to find ways into the Cowboys backfield.
Players to Watch: OSU vs Oregon
Matayo Uiagalelei, LB, No. 10
3 Storylines
Finding the end zone eight times and accumulating more than 500 yards of offense, Oregon shredded Montana State’s defense in its season opener.
Now, a Cowboys unit still meshing together gets tasked with opposing the Ducks high-flying offense. OSU slowed UT Martin’s offense to 225 yards and limited the Skyhawks to just 7 points. Facing an offense with Dante Moore behind center and explosive playmakers around him, Oregon’s offense will test Todd Grantham’s unit.
Noah Whittington, RB, No. 6
Whittington wasted no time showcasing his big play ability as he exploded for 35 yards on the first play of the season. With elusive speed, Whittington also serves as the Ducks’ kick returner. A sixthyear senior, Whittington is one of the few Ducks with four years of experience, and is often tasked with taking pressure off the firstyear quarterback, Dante Moore. With a career average of 5.4 yards per carry, he can be gone in a flash. If the Ducks’ offensive line is able to create a running lane for Whittington, watch for him to break a big one.
Once Hauss Hejny left the game with a foot injury a week ago, OSU turned to its running backs to power the offense but struggled to move the ball on the ground. Now, the Cowboys are going against a defensive front that lived in the backfield a week ago. The Ducks defense all but took the Montana State rushing attack out of the picture last week as they limited the Bobcats to just 46 rushing yards. With Zane Flores making his first career start, being able to effectively run the ball will help ease the pressure on the young quarterback against a strong Oregon defense.
Mike Gundy has emphasised getting Christian Fitzpatrick more involved on offense. Gundy believes the redshirt senior transfer from Marshall has a bigger role in the offense that he hasn’t yet fulfilled. Following the UT Martin game, Gundy said he “hated that (Fitzpatrick) didn’t get the ball more.” Having talented playmakers on the outside such as Terrell Davis and Shamir Rigby, getting Fitzpatrick the ball more has become a key of Gundy’s. Fitzpatrick finished the UT Martin game with just two targets, but could see the ball more in Eugene.
Gregory could play in Oregon after arrest
Oklahoma State linebacker Wendell Gregory is expected to make the trip to Oregon for the Cowboys’ game against the Ducks after being arrested this past Saturday on four counts of larceny of merchandise from retailer.
Coach Mike Gundy couldn’t comment about the legal aspects of Gregory’s arrest, but told media on Monday the Cowboys will “proceed as normal” with Gregory.
If something changes, there will be an update, Gundy added.
Gregory made his OSU debut against UT Martin and recorded three sacks. He’s one of the Cowboys’ most athletic defensive players and has the ability to play linebacker and edge rusher.
A redshirt freshman, Gregory transferred to OSU after redshirting at South Carolina in 2024. He appeared in two games and notched a tackle against Akron.
sports.ed@ocolly.com
Courtesy Eric Evans/Oregon Athletics
Payton Little
Mike Gundy said nothing has changed regarding Wendell Gregory’s availability for the Oregon game.
Courtesy Eric Evans/Oregon Athletics
The o’colly sports picks
ABOUT OUR GUEST PICKER:
Scott Wright is a sports writer covering Oklahoma State athletics for The Oklahoman. He also recently contributed to The Oklahoman’s NBA Finals coverage.
POINT
The biggest key for OSU is starting fast on offense. The Cowboys will need to score early and put real pressure onto the Ducks. If OSU can match Oregon’s high-flying ability early, then the outcome of the game could be different from what most projections say.
-Cayden Cox
WHAT’S THE BIGGEST KEY FOR OSU FOOTBALL AGAINST OREGON?
COUNTERPOINT
OSU needs to find its running game to have a chance against Oregon. OSU quarterback Zane Flores is making his first-career start, and if the Cowboys can’t rush the football, it will put even more pressure on Flores in a not-so-easy game. And if OSU can rush effciently, it could open up some play-action passing.
-Parker Gerl
Weston Wertzberger
Sam Mitchell
Luke Mazza
Cayden Cox