Should Marcell Ateman Even Come Back At This Point?

Shut it down, Marcell! When I heard about Marcell Ateman’s foot injury at the beginning of the season I thought there was no way he would be back for the beginning to middle of October like OSU was predicting.

Feet are too finicky and Ateman too big of a dude for something like that to heal on the optimistic end of things. This has continued into November, and now it looks like Ateman might not return at all, according to the Oklahoman.

While improving to the point of running was a positive move forward for Ateman, he’s still working through planting his foot with force, and pushing off while progressing through routes.

“We’re not going to let him practice this week, I think, unless he can prove to me that he can cut full speed, pain free,” Gundy said. “Until he can cut full speed and pain free, we’re not going to put him out there.”

Here’s the point: If cutting at full speed pain-free is an issue with five weeks left in the regular season is an issue at all, what’s the point in playing? Why come back for three games when you might not even be able to do anything?

Here’s the bigger point: Oklahoma State can and should load up for a run at the 2017 Big 12 championship. Consider the following roster on offense if Ateman redshirts (which he can do) and comes back. Add him to that James Washington/Jalen McCleskey/Tyron Johnson list.

https://twitter.com/pokes_state/status/786387034164211713

Oklahoma State has been an odd-year team for the last five seasons. That is, it has surged in odd-numbered years and regrouped in even-numbered ones. This has a lot to do with scheduling (OU, Baylor and TCU at home next year) but also with the way recruiting has set up.

OSU is getting a free gift in a year in which it will probably be the Big 12 title favorite along with OU. Winning the Big 12 title is of course possible this season as well, but I think OSU can do that without an 80-percent Ateman.

Next year? Well next year OSU could slither into the College Football Playoff, and having Ateman makes that more likely than not having Ateman. Unless of course you know The President is leaving office.