Hubbard's preparation becomes more intense

STILLWATER — Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy did his best to protect star running back Chuba Hubbard early in camp, with no need to push the veteran running back too hard.

But over the last week, with the Cowboys' season opener against Tulsa creeping nearer,

Gundy has ramped up the intensity of Hubbard's practice work.

“Chuba's practiced really well,” Gundy said. “He's practicing full-speed and getting back into a routine where he's out there and taking a few hits and getting ready to play.

“The guys behind him have gotten a lot of work, so I feel comfortable with those

players. ( The next week) will be big days for Chuba conditioning-wise, getting back into a routine of getting banged around a little bit, taking some hits, taking care of the football.

“But I like where he's at now. This will be important for his progression getting ready for the season.”

Hubbard's backups have primarily been senior LD Brown and junior Dez Jackson. Brown has been a regular backup throughout his career, while Jackson redshirted last year after transferring from junior college.

Sterling says Bundage playing with speed and violence

Oklahoma State safety Tre Sterling took quick note of how well linebacker Calvin Bundage was playing in his return to practice after missing last year with a back injury.

“His first practice back, he had three sacks in a row. Three and out,” Sterling said. “The way he rushes, I've never seen anyone rush like that before, with so much speed and so much violence.

“He's going to be better than he was before his injury.”

A fifth-year senior from Edmond Santa Fe, Bundage is listed at 6-foot-1 and 220 pounds. He has shown such a knack for rushing the passer in preseason camp that players have almost taken to talking about him as a defensive end.

With two returning starters at linebacker who each had over 100 tackles last season in Malcolm Rodriguez and Amen Ogbongbemiga, Bundage won't have to be an every-down player. He can be used situationally at times when he can best take advantage of his skills.