Oklahoma State Going Toe-to-Toe With Ohio State, Texas for Oklahoma Talent

If you were a fan of Oklahoma State football in 1991 when OSU went a 0-10-1, you’ll be shocked at what I’m about to tell you OSU is doing in 2017.

In the past month, Oklahoma State has landed commitments from two of the top 10 prospects in the state of Oklahoma. And the coaching staff hasn’t done it by fishing out under-the-radar guys like it has been known to do in the past. Big-time recruits are choosing the Cowboys early in the process in a way that is nearly stunning to see happen in real time.

CJ Moore, a Tulsa Union wide receiver and four-star prospect, picked Oklahoma State on Monday over Ohio State, Georgia, Oregon, Alabama …. the list goes on. Bryce Bray, a Bixby High School offensive guard, picked OSU after a short courting process by the local Oklahoma Sooners. It was a straight up pick. OU wanted Bray. Ohio State, among a slew of other big name schools, wanted Moore. OSU got both.

What is happening?

Right now, OSU’s 2018 class has gone from just outside the top 30 nationally, to a top 15 class. And the Cowboys have done so by going toe-to-toe on the recruiting trail — and winning — against the bluebloods in the state (OU) and even nationally (Ohio State, Alabama).

Here’s a look at the top 15 recruits in Oklahoma, via 247Sports. By count, Oklahoma State has three. Oklahoma has three. Texas has two. And Ohio State has one. tOSU won’t offer every top rated Oklahoma kid, mind you, but even one recruiting battle win over Urban Meyer is a big deal and perhaps a sign of strengthened recruiting prowess and respect locally.

OSU’s 10-man class isn’t complete just yet, and it could add more from the state of Oklahoma down the road. Of the five uncommitted prospects, let’s take a look at each and predict where they might fall.

Jalen Redmon — Midwest City defensive end

Redmon recently released a list of his top schools and excluded Oklahoma State from his consideration. Arizona State, Kansas State, Memphis, Nebraska and Oklahoma are all contenders, but I think he stays close.

Prediction: Oklahoma

Sean Shaw Jr. — Jones wide receiver

Shaw is a big target at 6-foot-5 and has the leaping ability to become a red-zone magnet at the next level. But neither OSU or OU have offered, and I don’t think that happens soon. He could be a late addition for one of the state schools, but I think he’ll go outside the state to play. Like Tyler Lockett, both state schools might regret that decision later. If OU offers, he’ll be a Sooner.

Prediction: Iowa State

Owen Condon — Bishop McGuinness offensive tackle

People tell me Condon wants to go west coast, but I’m not sold on it. I think he will stay local — either Arkansas, Oklahoma State, or even SMU being big contenders. He’s got 17 offers and plenty of options, and even though OSU has four offensive linemen committed in 2018, I think Condon becomes No. 5.

Prediction: Oklahoma State

James Palmer — Westmoore tight end

OSU was first to the party for Palmer, and so far the only Power 5 offer for the 6-foot-4 Westmoore standout. With OSU landing Nic McTear in 2018, I get the feeling OSU has cooled on Palmer. Colorado State and Arkansas State are in the mix. But I think an offer that comes in the future catches his eye. If OSU wants him later in the process, I think he could teeter that direction.

Prediction: Tulsa

Wayne Jones — Owasso safety

If not for Josh Proctor at Owasso, people would be drooling over Jones, who has equal talent as Proctor and perhaps a bigger upside. Jones is a 6-foot safety and Michigan State, Illinois, K-State and Memphis are all vying for his commitment.  I think he lands with Oklahoma State, who became one of his first offers early in the process.

Prediction: Oklahoma State