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15 biggest college football storylines to watch in 2017

By Jerran Anderson

Dec 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson poses with the trophy during a press conference at the New York Marriott Marquis after winning the 2016 Heisman Trophy award during a presentation at the Playstation Theater. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson poses with the trophy during a press conference at the New York Marriott Marquis after winning the 2016 Heisman Trophy award during a presentation at the Playstation Theater. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 29, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys head coach Mike Gundy reacts before the 2016 Alamo Bowl against the Colorado Buffaloes at Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 29, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys head coach Mike Gundy reacts before the 2016 Alamo Bowl against the Colorado Buffaloes at Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

10. Can Oklahoma State challenge Oklahoma for the Big 12 crown?

With the departure of Bob Stoops at Oklahoma, all eyes will be on other teams in the Big 12 to dethrone the defending conference champions. One huge favorite is the Oklahoma State Cowboys. They’re coming off a convincing 38-8 victory over the Colorado Buffaloes in he Alamo Bowl.

The Cowboys and head coach Mike Gundy had a productive 2016 season. They finished with 10 wins for the third time in the last four years and return two offensive juggernauts looking to turn a corner in the Big 12.

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Quarterback Mason Rudolph and wide receiver James Washington both return for their senior seasons looking to shake up the College Football Playoff landscape with potential bids.

Rudolph threw for 4,091 passing yards, 28 touchdowns and just four interceptions. He ranked second in the conference in passing yards and third in passing touchdowns.

Washington set a new career-high in receiving yards and receptions. He caught 71 passes for 1,380 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. He set a career-high in single-game receptions (9) and receiving yards (296) against the Pittsburgh Panthers as well.

Oklahome State’s defense will need to improve on the flip side. Their defense ranked 53rd in the FBS in points allowed last season (26.5 ppg) and also put up an ugly performance against the Central Michigan Chippewas.

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