Oklahoma State looks to focus, avoid early hype as it chases 2nd Big 12 title in 3 years

STILLWATER, Okla. – Oklahoma State's players appreciate that the media thinks highly enough about the Cowboys to pick them to win the Big 12 Conference this season.

But they don't want to buy into the hype, especially after an 8-5 season in which Oklahoma State started three different quarterbacks and settled for a trip to the Heart of Dallas Bowl.

Coach Mike Gundy has said preseason expectations are often based on who's returning at quarterback, and that remains a tightly guarded secret in Stillwater. Oklahoma State must also shore up its defense if it hopes to earn its second Big 12 championship in three years.

The Cowboys open the season on Aug. 31 at Mississippi State.