Storyline Countdown No. 4: Can OSU Dispel its Bedlam Woes This Season?

PFB’s countdown to football season by counting down the 15 most intriguing storylines continues today with a look at the No. 4 storyline we’re tracking going into 2018.

Storyline rank: No. 4
Storyline: Can OSU kick its Bedlam woes this season?

Why this matters: Bedlam has been a pivotal game since its inception, but under Mike Gundy, its result has oft times shaped the outcome of the conference. That may not be the case this season, as OSU enters 2018 as a team off the title-contending radar, but it’s still a sticking point among OSU fans that OSU’s record against its in-state rival is just 2-11 under Gundy.

How it could play out: OSU’s last Bedlam victory came in Norman in 2014 thanks to Tyreek Hill’s heroics and Big Game Bob’s decision to punt again. The Cowboys face the Sooners in Norman this season on Nov. 10, which is the start of a three-game gauntlet to end the season that also features WVU and TCU.

When Gundy’s crew rolls into Norman, it’s likely OSU will be considered a heavy underdog. But with a (potential) Heisman candidate in Justice Hill, a new-look defense that has garnered optimism among those in Stillwater, and a talented rushing attack that should be anchored by an improved offensive line, OSU has the tools to pull off a road upset.

Mike Gundy’s thoughts: Mike Gundy is aware of his Bedlam record. He knows he’s been no good against the Sooners, both in college as a player or as a coach of his alma mater. But he’s not getting hung up on his woeful record against OU.

“I really mean this,” Gundy said after losing 62-55 to OU last season in Stillwater. “I’m so beyond personal things in this. I’ve been doing this for 30 years. I’m more for developing and bringing these kids along.”

My thoughts: Mike Gundy isn’t getting hung up on his Bedlam record, and neither am I. The Sooners have been the class of the Big 12, and are in the midst of a pretty dominant conference run that just so happens to coincide with Gundy’s tenure.

I think when Oklahoma State travels to Norman this season, there will be a new vibe, though. With a new-look squad led by Taylor Cornelius and Bedlam hero Justice Hill, who runs like a man possessed in the state’s rivalry game, I think there may be a feeling that this team wants to prove its salt against the class of the conference. No better shot than against OU, which opens the season as a top-10 team and favorite to win the league.

Previous Countdowns

No. 15: How will OSU use all its running backs in 2018?
No. 14: Will Rodarius Williams, A.J. Green get more breathers this season?
No. 13: Is Tyron Johnson the X-Factor for OSU?
No. 12: Which Cowboy Back Will Emerge for OSU?
No. 11: How does a reloading year shape expectations?
No. 10: Why is Mike Yurcich not more beloved in Stillwater?
No. 9: How much better will the offensive line be in 2018?
No. 8: Who will be “the guy” on defense?
No. 7: Which Wide Reciever Will Emerge as the No. 1 Option?
No. 6: Is OSU’s special teams fixed?
No. 5: Can OSU keep its 10-win season streak alive?