Oklahoma State Football Aims for Turnaround Season in 2026

New coach Eric Morris and top transfer recruits bring hope for a rebound after two tough years for the Cowboys.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:50pm

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The Oklahoma State Cowboys football team is looking to bounce back in 2026 after a dismal 4-20 combined record over the past two seasons. New head coach Eric Morris and a highly-ranked transfer portal class, including players like Drew Mestemaker, Caleb Hawkins, and Wyatt Young, have the Pokes hoping for a major turnaround. While a return to the College Football Playoff may be out of reach, the team is aiming for at least a 6-win season and a bowl game appearance.

Why it matters

Oklahoma State has been one of the weaker teams in the Big 12 Conference the past two years, failing to win a single game against an FBS opponent last season. A successful 2026 campaign would help restore pride in the program and build momentum for the future under new leadership.

The details

Coach Morris brought his high-powered offense from North Texas, which averaged 52.9 points per game last year. However, the Cowboys will face a tough Big 12 schedule, including games against conference powers Houston and Texas Tech. The non-conference slate includes a rematch with Oregon, which made the College Football Playoff last season.

  • The 2026 season will kick off in September.
  • Oklahoma State's first Big 12 game is against UCF on October 5th.

The players

Eric Morris

The new head coach of the Oklahoma State Cowboys, previously the offensive coordinator at North Texas where he led one of the most prolific offenses in the country.

Drew Mestemaker

A highly-touted transfer recruit who will bolster the Cowboys' offense in 2026.

Caleb Hawkins

Another key transfer addition who is expected to make an immediate impact for Oklahoma State this season.

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What they’re saying

“We're really excited about the talent we were able to bring in through the transfer portal. These guys are going to help us turn this program around in a big way.”

— Eric Morris, Head Coach, Oklahoma State Cowboys

What’s next

The Cowboys' season opener against Tulsa on September 5th will be an early test to see if the team has truly improved from the past two disappointing campaigns.

The takeaway

After back-to-back losing seasons, Oklahoma State is banking on an influx of talented transfers and a new coaching staff to help the program bounce back in 2026. While a return to the College Football Playoff may be out of reach, a 6-win season and bowl game appearance would represent significant progress for the Cowboys.