Oklahoma State Preparing For Challenges Against Elusive Jackrabbits Quarterback

Come Saturday afternoon, the Oklahoma State University defense will be focused on South Dakota State quarterback Mark Gronowski, who has led the Jackrabbits to back-to-back national titles.

Last year, Gronowski amassed 3,460 total yards and 37 touchdowns. As the reigning FCS Offensive Player of the Year, Gronowski is entering his fourth season with South Dakota State, bringing a dual-threat capability that poses significant challenges for opponents.

“He definitely makes you have to load the box in passing situations, drop situations, all that type of stuff,” said OSU linebacker Nick Martin. “Just having a guy keyed on him at all times, you know, being aware of it. When plays are dragging on, he's liable to pull it at some point.”

This season marks the first time the Cowboys have sold out season tickets for home games before the opener. Head coach Mike Gundy attributes this to a few factors.

“I think it's a combination of our long-term success here, but I also think the new league is contributing to this,” Gundy said. “I think the fans want to see Utah play. I think they want to see … I don't even know who else we play at home, but the new teams that we play, I think it's intriguing to them.”

The Cowboys certainly don't have the softest nonconference schedule in the country, and the opener in Stillwater promises to be a tough one.