Oklahoma State University Athletics
Head Coach and Players Speak On Changes This Off-Season
July 31, 2000 | Cowboy Football
July 31, 2000
Bob Simmons, Head Coach
On not having Nebraska or Kansas State on the schedule this season:
"That's just the way things worked out. Not having them does not mean Missouri, Iowa State and Colorado are games that you overlook. All it means to me is that we have to be prepare to play everybody."
On the staff changes for OSU in the offseason:
"The ability to go out and hire quality coaches to continue what you want to do is more important than looking at whether or not you lost a guy. I can't control that [losing coaches to the NFL]. I can't pay $200,000 for my staff coaches, only Texas can do that."
Tony Lindsay, Quarterback
On this season:
"We have the talent to compete with anyone, anywhere in the country. The big thing it comes down to is executing the plays. We have a new offense this year that we understand and we are looking forward to using it on the field."
On last year's injuries:
"I wasn't healthy after the first quarter of the first game last year. But I have been healthy since spring ball and I'm ready to go this season."
On the new offense:
"We need to go take care of the ball first of all. The offense is more wide open this year and that will benefit us. If we start to throw the ball it will open up the running game for us. We will be ready to run and throw the ball this season."
Juqua Thomas, Defensive End
On this performance this season:
"I've become a better player over the off season as far as strength and speed."
On losing key players:
"We have some good young linebackers. The younger guys are ready to step up and play."
On the coaching staff:
"The coaching staff has had a big impact on us. The defense should be ready to play this year."
