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Big 12 Football Spring Preview: Biggest question for each team

By Patrick Schmidt

Nov 21, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) hands off to running back Samaje Perine (32) during the game against the TCU Horned Frogs at Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) hands off to running back Samaje Perine (32) during the game against the TCU Horned Frogs at Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 21, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys offensive line led by Oklahoma State Cowboys quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) in the game against the Baylor Bears at Boone Pickens Stadium. Baylor won 45-35. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys offensive line led by Oklahoma State Cowboys quarterback Mason Rudolph (2) in the game against the Baylor Bears at Boone Pickens Stadium. Baylor won 45-35. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports /

Can Oklahoma State protect Mason Rudolph?

The Oklahoma State Cowboys were one of the best teams in the country the first 10 weeks of the season as Mike Gundy’s team raced to a 10-0 start. The Pokes stumbled down the stretch as they lost their last three games by an average of 21 points and their inability to protect the quarterback was a big reason for that.

After allowing 40 sacks in 2014, there was some improvement as they allowed 32 in 2015, but that still ranked No. 93 in the nation and clearly represents an area for improvement. Mason Rudolph is one of the more talented quarterbacks in the Big 12 but if he’s running for his life every play he’s not going to be able to showcase his talents.

The good thing is Oklahoma State returns all five starters along the offensive line. The bad news is that starting five allowed 32 sacks. If they can collectively trim that number to 25, I think Gundy and Rudolph can tolerate that.

An improved offensive line will also mean the offense won’t be so pass-heavy and can bring the threat of a run game to the offense and some much-needed balance.

Next: Return of Kenny Trill?

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