Oklahoma State University Athletics
Coaches and Players Talk at Monday's Press Luncheon
November 20, 2006 | Cowboy Football
Head coach Mike Gundy
On last week's loss to Texas Tech
“I was really disappointed with the drops, we had eight drop. It kept us from getting in a rhythm on offense after the first 20 minutes of the game or so. Probably should have scored another 10 to 14 points, but when you don not get in sync and you drop passes and you cut down on your chunk plays that is the result that you get.”
On the defense
“Defensively in the last game we played good for most of the game, we had three really big plays that we gave up. They (Tech) made some nice catches, their guys went up and made some plays. They made plays in the game and we did no. That is the reason that we lost the last game.”
On Oklahoma
“We are back to work this week playing a very good football team, a much improved team, in my opinion from early in the season. They have obviously put themselves in position to probably compete with just about anybody in the country. We have got our work cut out for us, but I am looking forward to it. I am sure the players are excited to be over here today and get the game plan started and get going.”
On expectations of bedlam game this year versus past seasons
“I think that these players feel like they can compete with anybody that we play now. Last year when we were not a very good football team, we probably played our best games against Texas and Texas Tech. I do not think there is any question that our players feel like we can compete and win the game. I think they understand that we have to run the football. It is pretty obvious that on offense we rely on getting big plays through our play-action passing game and defensively we have to be steady and get in our spots in pass coverage and then we have to force turnovers. Lastly the special teams, you have to play well on special teams. I think everybody understands what we have to do in order to be successful and win the game. “
On youth playing a part in the Cowboy's close losses
“Yes, I do think that is a factor. These young guys that are playing have played 11 games now and so they have to get over that. The youth is over with, the guys have got to go out now and make plays. But I do think the emotional swing of a football game at times can effect you differently if you are not as experienced of a player, unless you are just put together a little differently.”
Junior Linebacker Roderick Johnson
On the importance of Bedlam
“Most of us players are looking forward to Bedlam. It is a big game for us and it is time to prove we are the best in Oklahoma. It is a big week for us. There is a lot of emotion in this game because we are playing an in-state rival. It is a football game we have to win. We are both good teams and we both have had some bad breaks this season. (Oklahoma) is a really good team and this will be another challenge for us.”
On Oklahoma's running game
“I think (Oklahoma) has great running backs. Of course they have a good offensive line, but once we line up on Saturday we are going to find out who can run the ball and who can stop the run. Hopefully, it will be Oklahoma State who comes out on top.”
Junior Linebacker Jeremy Nethon
On forcing the fumble in punt coverage after losing his helmet against Texas Tech
“I think running down the field without a helmet was crazy. When my helmet popped off, I told myself that I was not going to try and loaf on this play. As I was running down the field, I hoped I would not have gotten hit in the face. So I tried to be the first to make the play before another player would hit me.”
On what Bedlam means
“Growing up in Oklahoma, Bedlam means everything to me. As a kid, you see the schools within the state and you do not know which one to go for. Some parts of your family will go for Oklahoma State and the other would go for Oklahoma. Being able to see the two teams clash together has always been a part of my life. It is a big game.”
Senior Offensive Lineman Corey Hilliard
On the loss to Texas Tech
“(Texas Tech) is a good team that fought back. We have been down by 17 points twice this season and we fought back in those games. It was not a surprise. We did not let down, we just caught some bad breaks in third quarter.”
On playing Oklahoma
“Not being able to win against (Oklahoma) throughout my career is something I use as motivation. I do not want to leave (Oklahoma State) knowing I did not beat them. I think the key is putting the loss to Texas Tech behind us and getting back to work. Oklahoma's defense is the best unit we will see up to this point in the season. Our offense needs to have a good week in practice.”
Senior Offensive Lineman Kurt Seifried
On being apart of the 2002 Bedlam victory in Stillwater
“Watching the fans rush the field was one coolest things that I have experience since I have been here. I know winning this game will take this program to newer heights. I have a good sense of that.”
On the atmosphere the Bedlam game brings to Oklahoma State's campus
“When Gameday was here, fans were out there really early. Walking around on campus during Bedlam week, fans will pat you on the back and wish you good luck. It is definitely a different week because it is everything you play football for. I am looking forward to the game.”
On Oklahoma's defense
“Oklahoma's defense is really good. I read where they only give up on average 94 rushing yards a game. It will be a big challenge for us and I hope we are up for it.”
