Spencer addressing OSU’s defensive penalty issues
Oklahoma State has seen a rise in defensive penalties the last two games, and it’s a trend defensive coordinator Glenn Spencer wants to turn around.
OSU was flagged three times for pass interference at Texas Tech, with one more against TCU, plus a couple of defensive holding calls on passing plays.
In a league where teams are prone to throw the ball 40-plus times a game, pass interference flags are going to come. But Spencer is working with his cornerbacks to try to curb the issue.
“It’s a fine line,” Spencer said. “We definitely worked on it with them to show them where the timing of their hits needs to be with where the ball is at.
“It's very subjective. You watch tape, and there's guys battling hand-onhand and the call’s not made, and other times it is, so we try to teach proper timing, getting your head around and searching for the ball."
Three of OSU's pass interference calls in the last two games have been called in the end zone.
Baylor focused on slowing OSU run game
Baylor coach Matt Rhule has emphasized his team’s need to better contain opponents’ rushing attack, and coming off a bye week, Oklahoma State could see some different schemes from the Bear defense.
But trying to guess what new things Baylor might do is an effort in futility. Instead, the Cowboys have been preparing to attack what Baylor has done through five games, then must be prepared to adjust to any new looks they get.
“All we know is what we see on film,” senior right tackle Zach Crabtree said. “We try to stay focused on that. We have seen some things on film and have an idea of what we’re going to do and how we’re going to go about things. We’ll be ready to go.”
OSU linebackers prepping for improved Baylor ground attack
With injuries and suspensions behind them, the Baylor running backs are at full strength for the first time all season.
And that excites the OSU linebackers.
“It will be a challenge
for us but a great way for us linebackers to shine this game,” junior Kenneth Edison-McGruder said.
Baylor has averaged just 118 yards per game on the ground so far, while the Cowboys are allowing 136 per game.
“We love that (challenge),” linebacker Justin Phillips said. "That's one thing we really pride ourselves on, stopping the run first. If you can stop the run, you make it onedimensional and the rest of the game just flows your way.”
With the added running backs and a week off to add to the game plan, Baylor’s rushing attack could have a different look on Saturday.
“A bye week is a chance for a lot of teams to put in new things and learn different teams,” Edison McGruder said. “When a team gets an open week, you have to be ready for anything and be on your toes. Saturdays are always a battle. No matter who you are playing, you have to come prepared and ready to play.”