Oklahoma State football: Cowboys have become very resilient in tough times

But their separation wasn't limited to the field.

The postgame comparison between OSU and West Virginia revealed quite a contrast, too. And with that, perhaps, some insight into the whys and hows of the Cowboys' continued success at a time when lesser squads might be showing major cracks.

After OSU's surge to a 55-34 win, Cowboys linebacker Caleb Lavey reflected on his team's toughness and resolve, no matter the situation.

“We're a relentless team,” Lavey said. “We've had some setbacks. We've had some stuff happen to the team. But we're a team that's going to push through it.

“That's what makes this team different from other teams. We're just going to continue to press on and push ourselves.”

The Cowboys keep pushing past adversity, improving to 6-3 overall and 4-2 in the Big 12 Conference.

Despite needing three quarterbacks to start — and win — league games.

Despite so many injuries, and not just at quarterback.

Despite a growing reliance on young players on both sides of the ball.

Lavey hinted at how they're doing it, with intangibles in play.

So, too, did Mountaineers coach Dana Holgorsen, who seems to have gained some keen insight into the inner workings of OSU's football program in his 10 months in Stillwater.

“OSU is a team that gives a lot of effort,” Holgorsen said. “They go out there each game and play for each other, play for their school and play to win.”