Daily Bullets (Feb. 14): Vegas’ Bet on the QB Job, The Cowboy That Got Away
The calendar flips to February 14, and while love is in the air for some, for Oklahoma State football and Mike Gundy, the focus remains squarely on building for the future. As the offseason continues to unfold, there are plenty of storylines developing for the Cowboys. The quarterback situation remains one of the most intriguing, with fans eagerly awaiting an answer on who will be under center in 2025.
In this edition of Daily Bullets, we dive into a major storyline—the Vegas odds on the quarterback battle, and a deeper look at “The Cowboy That Got Away” —a player who has taken his talents elsewhere but left a lasting impact on the program. Here’s everything you need to know about Oklahoma State’s football landscape as we move into the heart of the offseason.
Vegas Puts Their Bet on the Cowboys’ Quarterback Job
One of the more intriguing questions surrounding Oklahoma State football as we look ahead to the 2025 season is who will emerge as the starting quarterback? With the departure of Spencer Sanders, who had been the team’s leader for several years, there is a wide-open competition for the job. Mike Gundy has already confirmed that the position will be up for grabs, and it’s safe to say that the race is heating up.
Now, with the Cowboys’ future under center in question, Las Vegas oddsmakers have thrown their hat in the ring and put their money on who they believe will win the job. The odds for the starting QB are an interesting reflection of how the betting world views the competition.
As of the latest projections, Garrett Rangel —a highly touted recruit who showed flashes of potential during his limited time last season—has emerged as the favorite to take the reins in 2025. With strong physical tools and an impressive high school pedigree, Rangel is expected to take a big step forward in his development. However, the race is far from decided, and Gundy has made it clear that every player will have a shot, regardless of experience.
Interestingly, Zane Flores, another young quarterback in the mix, is also attracting attention from bettors. While he has less experience than Rangel, his raw talent and potential make him a wildcard in the competition. There’s always the possibility that he could surprise and claim the starting role. The betting odds have made it clear that the quarterback battle will be one of the most intriguing and watched position battles of the offseason.
So, what can we expect as spring practices approach? Gundy is likely to lean on competition and merit, allowing all players to prove themselves in real-time situations. It may take some time to determine who will win the starting job, but it’s clear that Oklahoma State has a talented crop of quarterbacks eager to take the next step in the program.
With Vegas’ bet on who will win the job, it adds even more intrigue to what’s already a high-stakes situation. The future of Oklahoma State’s offense depends heavily on who Gundy chooses to lead the charge under center.
The Cowboy That Got Away: A Look at the Player Who Left a Mark
While the focus for most is on the future, there’s a reminder that the past can still play a role in shaping the program. One of the most interesting stories from this offseason is about the Cowboy that got away—a player who chose to transfer elsewhere but left a lasting impact on Oklahoma State football.
Jaden Nixon, a talented running back who was poised to make a significant impact on Oklahoma State’s offense, shocked many when he announced his decision to enter the transfer portal. Nixon, known for his speed and ability to make defenders miss, had all the tools to become one of the Cowboys’ top playmakers. He was expected to be a key part of the offense in 2025, alongside the experienced Dominic Richardson.
Nixon’s departure leaves a void in the running back room that could have far-reaching consequences for Oklahoma State. With his dynamic running style, Nixon could have been a centerpiece in the Cowboys’ offense, especially in an offense that often relies on the running game to open up the passing attack.
Despite his departure, Nixon’s time at Oklahoma State wasn’t without its highlights. During his time with the Cowboys, he showcased his ability to be an explosive back. There were flashes of brilliance in his runs, showing his elusiveness and ability to break off big gains. As Oklahoma State looks ahead to 2025, the coaching staff will have to figure out how to replace his skill set and find another player who can fill the shoes of Nixon, whose potential was undeniable.
Nixon’s exit marks a growing trend in college football, with more players than ever before opting to test the transfer portal. While it’s disappointing to lose a player with such potential, it also serves as a reminder of how quickly the landscape of college football can change. Oklahoma State’s staff will now need to focus on recruiting and developing the next wave of talent to keep the offense humming.
In Nixon’s absence, Oklahoma State will have to rely on Dominic Richardson to shoulder a heavy load in the backfield. Richardson, a more established player, has shown flashes of brilliance but will need to carry the team in the running game for the Cowboys to be successful in 2025. The coaching staff will also be looking to bring in a couple of fresh faces through recruiting or the transfer portal to help stabilize the position.
The Broader Implications of Oklahoma State’s Offseason
While the departure of Nixon and the ongoing quarterback competition are certainly important storylines, there are several other developments taking place that will influence Oklahoma State’s prospects in 2025.
One major area of focus for Gundy and the staff will be recruiting. Oklahoma State has consistently pulled in strong recruiting classes, and the 2025 class is no exception. The team has added several key pieces that could make an immediate impact, including some highly touted defensive recruits and offensive line prospects. A strong recruiting class is crucial for Gundy to maintain the program’s competitive edge in the Big 12 and continue to challenge for conference championships.
Additionally, the transfer portal has continued to be an avenue for the Cowboys to add talent. With Nixon’s departure, Gundy will likely look for new playmakers on both sides of the ball. The transfer portal has proven to be a valuable resource for Oklahoma State, allowing them to bring in experienced players who can contribute immediately. Whether it’s adding depth to the offensive line or bringing in a wide receiver to complement the passing game, the portal remains a critical part of Oklahoma State’s strategy.
Lastly, Oklahoma State must continue to focus on player development. Gundy has long been praised for his ability to develop talent, and that will be put to the test in 2025. Whether it’s finding the right quarterback or working with the offensive line to become more consistent, Oklahoma State’s coaching staff will need to get the best out of every player on the roster.
The Road Ahead for Oklahoma State
As we approach the 2025 season, the storylines for Oklahoma State continue to unfold. The quarterback competition is one of the most intriguing aspects of the offseason, but it’s not the only one. The loss of Jaden Nixon will hurt, but Gundy’s ability to recruit, develop talent, and build a cohesive team will ultimately determine how the Cowboys fare in 2025.
For Oklahoma State, the next few months will be crucial. The team will need to address the holes left by Nixon’s departure, settle the quarterback position, and continue to build momentum in recruiting. With a tough slate of games ahead, including several high-profile matchups within the Big 12, it will take a collective effort from coaches, players, and recruits to ensure that Oklahoma State remains competitive and positioned for a successful season.
As always, the future of Oklahoma State football is uncertain, but the team’s potential is undeniable. The offseason is just getting started, and there’s plenty of time for the Cowboys to figure things out and set themselves up for success in 2025. One thing is for sure: there’s no shortage of excitement and drama surrounding the team, and fans will be watching closely to see how things unfold.
Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, Go Pokes!