Oklahoma State's defense is being strengthened by experienced newcomers who often play in the shadow of the No. 18 ranked Cowboys' prolific offense, according to a report published October 14.
Head coach Eric Morris has noted that the high level of communication and intelligence from these older players has been phenomenal for the team throughout the year.
Linebacker Ethan Wesloski is averaging 10.6 tackles per game and recorded 17 tackles in each of Oklahoma State's first two conference games. The 23-year-old, who played 41 games at North Texas over four seasons, has been named the Big 12 defensive player of the week three times this season.
Fellow linebacker Tate Romney is a 24-year-old transfer from Arizona State. Romney, who previously played three games for BYU in 2022 following a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is currently fourth in the Big 12 in tackles. He recorded double-digit tackle games of 14 and 12 in Big 12 wins over West Virginia and UCF.
The Cowboys also feature three players among the Big 12's top nine tacklers. Junior safety Quinton Hammonds, a North Texas transfer, recorded 11 tackles against UCF, bringing his season average to 7.2 per game. Evan Jackson, also from North Texas, recorded a 28-yard fumble return for a touchdown in that same 42-28 victory.
Romney, who is the father of two, stated that while parenthood is difficult, it is also joyful. He noted that he focuses on football while present, and focuses on his son and daughter when at home.
Oklahoma State will face No. 20 Houston this Saturday, seeking their first five-game winning streak since 2023. The Cowboys currently hold a 4-1 record and a 2-0 record in the Big 12.
