Five Players to Watch in Saturday’s Spring Game

Oklahoma State released the rosters for Saturday’s spring game at Boone Pickens Stadium. There’s some interesting takeaways on both teams along with some injuries to key players who will not participate, but if I were handicapping this one, I’d say the orange team should be listed as a double digit favorite.

There’s a lot of returning starters from last season’s 10-3 squad, but a lot of new or young faces that make this spring game particularly interesting. Here’s five players I’m intrigued by and will keep an eye on this weekend.

5. Kenneth McGruder – Safety/Star Linebacker

McGruder was recruited and started his career at safety. But the lack of depth and injuries has forced a position change to star linebacker because Glenn Spencer “didn’t have anyone else.” Coming from the safety position, he has excellent coverage skills and can cover well in space, but does he have the size and versatility to read plays and play in the hybrid role this early in his career? All signs suggest Mike Gundy loves the move – and he’ll get an excellent opportunity with Jordan Burton out with a minor injury.

4. Jarrell Owens – Defensive End

Owens flashed some big upside in his role last season as a backup, and of the young defensive ends, is the most intriguing of the bunch. The former Palestine, Texas running back is up to a whopping 270-pounds. He has little experience, but I think he’s in for a productive year as a redshirt sophomore – the same year Ogbah had his breakout season.

3. Keenen Brown – Cowboy Back

Brown was one of the highest rated receiver signees for Mike Gundy several years back, but injuries and a unique development of his body has allowed the coaching staff to try him at cowboy back. The 6-3, 240-pound freak athlete has a ton of upside, but can he be useful in a role as a blocking tight end and versatile pass catcher? We’ll get a chance to see just how far his development has come at the position on Saturday.

2. Derrick Moncrief – Safety

Moncrief, the former Auburn safety, has one year to leave his mark on the Cowboy program. He was the No. 1 ranked safety in junior college before choosing Auburn, and he has the SEC size and potential to be a game changer alongside hard hitting Jordan Sterns and Tre Flowers. This safety group is stacked with talent.

1. Larry Williams – Offensive Line

Williams is the most intriguing of the bunch to me. The junior college all-american is earning rave reviews in spring practice thus far, but offensive line coach Adkins admits he still has a ways to go. Regardless, the guard position desperately needs an upgrade. I would be shocked if he doesn’t win the starting job.