The Oklahoma State Cowboys entered their home matchup against the Murray State Racers riding the high of a dramatic upset over the nation’s No. 6 team, the Oregon Ducks. The 39‑31 victory on September 12 not only snapped a 21‑game skid against FBS opponents but also showcased the Cowboys’ explosive offense under head coach Eric Morris and quarterback Drew Mestemaker.
Game details
When: 6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 19
Where: Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, OK
TV: ESPN+
Radio: 96.1 KXXY and The Varsity Sports Network
OSU record: 1‑1
Murray State record: 1‑2
What the upset means for OSU
The win over Oregon was a statement that the Cowboys can dominate top‑ranked competition. Oklahoma State moved the ball at will, forcing the Ducks into uncomfortable situations on both sides of the ball. While Oregon’s defense managed two touchdowns off turnovers—a pick‑six in the first half and a second‑quarter interception that set up a short‑field score—those 14 points were insufficient to overcome the Cowboys’ relentless attack.
Mestemaker accounted for 426 total yards, including 317 through the air and three total touchdowns. He also displayed his dual‑threat ability with a 75‑yard rushing gain on the opening drive, setting the tone early and energizing the home crowd.
Racers’ recent form
The Murray State Racers entered the game after a 27‑18 win over Valparaiso, snapping a two‑game losing streak that began with defeats to Eastern Illinois and Middle Tennessee. In three games, the Racers have averaged 332.7 yards of offense while allowing 363.7 yards defensively. Their ground game averages 134 yards per contest, and they have kept the passing attack under 200 yards per game.
Against Valparaiso, Murray State posted 388 total yards—split evenly between the air and the ground—demonstrating a balanced approach that could test the Cowboys’ defense.
First meeting and stakes
This contest marks the inaugural meeting between the Cowboys and the Racers. For Murray State, a win would represent their first FBS victory since 1984, a milestone that could energize the program and its supporters. For Oklahoma State, the game offers an opportunity to solidify momentum, improve their record, and continue building confidence after a landmark upset.
Looking ahead
Coach Morris emphasized the importance of staying focused and executing the game plan. “We want to keep the energy high and finish the season strong,” he said. The Cowboys’ fans, still buzzing from the Oregon triumph, are expected to fill the stadium, creating a vibrant atmosphere that could give OSU a decisive home‑field advantage.
Both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths—OSU’s high‑octane passing attack and Murray State’s balanced offense—making for an intriguing Saturday night showdown in Stillwater.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
