Oklahoma State journal, special teams outlook,
STILLWATER — Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy said Tuesday there has not been any significant separation between quarterback hopefuls Spencer Sanders and Dru Brown, and that the staff has begun to talk about plans for how both could be used in the season opener at Oregon State.
“Both of `em are doing really well. If we were to play this week, we'd play both guys,” Gundy said following Tuesday's practice.
But that' s all the detail Gun dy was interested in sharing regarding how a twoquarterback pl an could be executed when the Cowboys begin the season.
“We don't have to make that decision 'til next week,” he said. “There's discussions taking place, but we're not sure yet. We're still evaluating and trying to do what's best.”
Gundy offered the same response when asked more generally if he preferred a systematic plan for alternating quarterbacks, or to stick with a player who is performing well.
“Not sure,” he said. “That discussion took place, also.”
Gundy will meet with the media one more time, at noon Friday, before the Cowboys head to Corvallis to face Oregon State at 9:30 p.m. Aug. 30 on FS1.
Bundage cleared to practice after back strain
Calvin Bundage i s active again, but Gundy hasn't determined the extent of Bundage's role in the season opener.
Gundy said Bundage, a senior linebacker from Edmond, has been cleared to practice i n full after dealing with a back strain. Previously, Gundy said Bundage's physical role was limited as the Cowboys prepared for the season.
“I expect him t o get out t here and get s ome action (against Oregon State) if all goes as planned,” Gundy said. “Whether he'll start, based on missing what he's missed, I couldn't answer that right now.”
Bundage endured injuries during the past year. He missed the Kansas game because he hurt his right lower leg against Texas Tech, and an undisclosed injury kept him from playing in the Liberty Bowl.
When Bundage is healthy, he is a dynamic, aggressive defender who can set the tone f or t he Cowboys' defense. Through 1 1 games i n 2018, he had 62 tackles. This year, he is on the watch list for the Butkus Award, which honors the top collegiate linebacker.
Quotable
Gundy on Oregon State: “Oregon State scored a l ot of points last year. They've had success on offense. They want to run the football. Their quarterback has been around for a long time so he is experienced and it gives them a little bit of leeway at that position. They've become more athletic. They've got a couple of guys who moved in and transferred in. It will be a dogfight. We will have our hands full but we're looking forward to playing them.”