Brandon Chatmon: OSU's defense will be among best in Big 12 in 2011

The Oklahoman's Oklahoma State football beat writer Brandon Chatmon answered questions from readers in today's Power Lunch chat. Read the entire chat recap here. Participate in our Power Lunch chats Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. at NewsOK.com/sports

On one prediction for Oklahoma State's 2011 season:

My crazy prediction, and it is crazy, is this... OSU's defense will be one of the best in the conference in 2011. I think this year is when the young talent and speed on defense pays off for the Pokes. If they can find some DTs to hold their own in the interior, this defense has the chance to be pretty good.

On who will replace middle linebacker Orie Lemon:

I expect Caleb Lavey to be the starter at middle linebacker. He's a young player so he will have plenty of ups and downs and Orie Lemon was a All-Big 12 defender. But I don't expect Caleb Lavey to be a weak link in the defense by any stretch. He should be a solid starter for OSU

On which game will be a measuring stick for the Cowboys early in 2011:

Much like last season, my eyes will be on the Texas A&M game in late Sept. Except this year it's in College Station. If the Pokes win that game, they could be on their way to a similar year as they had in 2010.

On the biggest question mark for Oklahoma State going into the 2011 season:

Well you always worry about health and making sure everyone comes out healthy. After that I would say the defensive interior and I'd also throw in the cornerbacks. If OSU can develop a two-deep at corner who they feel comfortable with, that could open up options in terms of blitzing and causing havoc in the offensive backfield.