Oklahoma State’s top linebacker, Collin Oliver, left the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks with an apparent leg injury. The broadcast later announced that he is getting X-rays done on his lower right leg. The Cowboy Radio Network reported that he will not return to the game.
Oliver’s exit came right after he made a significant play in the game. The Cowboys were trailing the Razorbacks 14-0 when Oliver applied pressure on Arkansas quarterback Taylor Green on a key third-down play, leading to an interception.
Kale Smith intercepted the errant throw from Green and returned it 73 yards for a touchdown, making the score 14-7. The Cowboys were nearly able to force another turnover in the form of a fumble but the runner’s knee was down. This play came at a critical time as Arkansas was driving in Oklahoma State territory.
Oliver is a key player for the Cowboys, finishing last season with 45 solo tackles, six sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss in 14 games. He was named second-team All-Big 12 last season.
There has been no update on the severity of Oliver’s injury, but his loss is a major blow to the Cowboys. His absence will be felt on the field, as he is a leader for the team. The Cowboys will have to find a way to compensate for his loss if he is unable to return for the remainder of the season.
Oklahoma State Struggles Defensively Without Oliver
Oklahoma State’s defense struggled to start the day, allowing more than 300 total yards in the first half. The Cowboys will need someone else to step up in Oliver’s absence. Junior Nick Martin, who led the team in tackles in 2023, is expected to see an increase in snaps.
Arkansas Takes Early Lead
The Razorbacks came out firing on all cylinders against the Cowboys.
Arkansas quarterback Taylor Green had a strong first half, completing 13 of 20 passes for 193 yards and adding another 71 yards on the ground. Running back Ja’Quinden Jackson also had a big game, recording 14 carries for 90 yards and three touchdowns in the first half.
The Razorbacks finished the first quarter with 172 yards of total offense, moving the ball at will throughout the opening 15 minutes. Of that total, 114 yards came on the ground. Arkansas went into halftime with a 21-7 advantage over the Cowboys.
The Big Picture: What’s Next for Oklahoma State?
Oliver’s injury is a big blow to the Cowboys. His absence will be felt on the field, as he is a leader for the team. Oklahoma State needs to find a way to win despite his loss.
The Cowboys will need to find a way to bounce back in the second half to avoid being upset at home. They will also need to find a way to contain the Arkansas offense, which is playing at a high level.
If Oliver’s injury proves to be serious, the Cowboys will have to find a way to overcome his absence for the rest of the season.
Can The Cowboys Recover Without Oliver?
The Cowboys will need to find a way to win despite Oliver’s injury. They have a talented team, but they will need to play at a high level to overcome this setback. They need to find a way to generate a consistent offensive attack and make up for the loss of their star linebacker.
The Cowboys have a tough schedule ahead of them. They will need to be ready to play their best football if they want to be successful this season.
