Oklahoma State University Athletics
Happy Homecoming For Taylor
December 27, 2009 | Cowboy Football
Dec. 27, 2009
ARLINGTON, Texas – For Lane Taylor, the fairy tale came true.
A redshirt freshman offensive lineman buried on the Oklahoma State depth chart, Taylor didn't figure to earn much playing time for the Cowboys in 2009.
But when OSU takes on Ole Miss in the AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic, the 6-foot-2, 301 pounder will be starting his 11th-straight game for the Cowboys at right guard.
And he'll be doing it in his hometown, where he starred at Arlington North High School.
“It's really exciting,” Taylor said. “I always grew up watching the Cowboys and to actually play in the stadium, in their new stadium, is really cool.”
Playing much at all this season is something even Taylor admits was improbable just a few months ago.
“It's pretty much a story of me coming out of nowhere,” Taylor said. “I didn't expect it at all, especially at the start of the year. I've just worked and tried to get better each week, and it's been a great experience.”
OSU offensive coordinator Joe Wickline threw Taylor into the mix during practice the week of the Rice game, and Taylor apparently impressed – he's been the Cowboys' starter at right guard ever since.
Taylor remembers his big break – and thinking it might all be a dream.
“I think it was a Tuesday practice,” said Taylor of the first time he practiced with the first team offensive line. “Coach Wickline rolls guys all the time so I was like, 'This isn't gonna stick.' I guess he took a chance with me. I was pretty shocked. I was still wondering before the game if he was gonna move me back, but he stuck with me.”
The move has certainly paid off. With Taylor joining the fray, the Cowboys' offensive line led the Big 12 Conference in rushing for the fourth-straight season and paved the way for a 1,000-yard rusher for the third year in a row.
OSU has also allowed just 10 sacks this season, a total which ranks among the best in college football.
Taylor's growth and maturity since September are evident.
“I'm so much better, I understand the game so much more,” Taylor said. “Before I was just kind of overwhelmed and second-guessing myself, but the more you play, the better you get. There's a lot of room for improvement, but I'm pretty comfortable with our plays and where I fit in.”
