si
The Oklahoma State Cowboys are gearing up for their upcoming clash with West Virginia, but their recent 59-0 dismantling of Murray State offered more than just a win—it gave several players a chance to shine and others a reason to worry. The shutout was the program's first at home since 2012 when they blanked Savannah State, and it allowed the coaching staff to evaluate depth in a low-pressure environment.
With the lopsided score, many Cowboys saw extended playing time that they wouldn't typically receive in tighter contests. For some, this was a golden opportunity to boost their stock; for others, it may have signaled a diminished role moving forward. Head coach Eric Morris and his staff now have a clearer picture of who can contribute when the games matter most.
Stock Rising
RB William Mason – Although Mason didn't see much action on offense, he made the most of his limited opportunities. The Central Oklahoma transfer carried the ball five times for 46 yards, all in the final minutes, marking his first carries as a Cowboy. Morris praised Mason's efficiency after the game, noting that he also contributes on special teams, which is crucial for the travel roster. With over 1,500 rushing yards at UCO, Mason could push for more touches if he continues to impress.
OG Desmond Magiya – The North Texas transfer has been a Swiss Army knife on the offensive line, filling in at left tackle, left guard, and right guard due to injuries and shuffling. Against Murray State, no offensive lineman played more snaps than Magiya. His versatility and reliability have made him arguably the most important lineman over the past three weeks. When starters Joseph Hanson and Braydon Nelson return, Magiya's role may shrink, but his ability to play multiple positions ensures he won't disappear from the rotation.
S Markeith Williams – After four seasons at Miami (FL) with inconsistent playing time, Williams transferred to Oklahoma State in the summer and initially lagged behind in the secondary. However, he may have caught up against the Racers, leading the team with five tackles and giving the starting safeties a much-needed breather after heavy workloads the previous two weeks. This performance could earn him more snaps as the season progresses.
Stock Falling
CB Trudell Berry – Berry was touted as a potential starter at cornerback early in fall camp, but he has only seen 18 snaps this season, all against Murray State. Mo Horn has solidified his role as the starter on that side, and Berry's limited action indicates that the coaching staff views him primarily as a special teams contributor. The pecking order at cornerback appears set, leaving Berry on the outside looking in.
TE Donovan Green – The tight end depth chart is now clear: Carson Kolb is the starter, and Morgan McPhaul is the backup, especially in running situations. Green, who had 22 catches in four seasons split between Texas A&M and LSU, has contributed mainly on special teams. His limited snaps against Murray State suggest that the top two tight end spots are firmly established, and Green's role will remain minimal.
QB Grant Jordan – Morris gave the backup quarterback reps to freshman Broderick Vehrs instead of Jordan, who has played college football since 2020 at Yale and UMass but never at the Power Five level. While Morris might still turn to the veteran in an emergency, the decision to give Vehrs the snaps could be a signal about the future. Jordan's lack of playing time against Murray State raises questions about his standing in the quarterback room.
As the Cowboys turn their attention to West Virginia, these evaluations will shape the depth chart and playing rotations. The Murray State game was more than a blowout—it was a crucial audition for players fighting for roles.