Searching for a “Star”

by Brandon Chatmon
bchatmon@opubco.com
Follow me on Twitter @BChatmon

It’s July which means football is right around the corner. It’s the perfect time to take a closer look at Oklahoma State’s roster, so over the next week I will be taking a in-depth, position-by-position look at the Cowboys heading into the 2010 football season. Today I take a closer look at the “Star” linebacker spot:

#22 James Thomas, 5-11, 215, Junior

Analysis: Thomas seems to have a knack for being around the ball. He was a contributor on special teams as Andre Sexton’s backup last season but he lacks the ideal size for the position. He has experience but he will have to continue to raise his level of play to hold off the talented youngsters behind him.

Impact: Opening day starter, special teams contributor.

#29 Joe Mitchell, 6-3, 215, Redshirt freshman

Analysis: Mitchell was one of the stars of the spring. What was most impressive about his spring was the fact he was working out on his own during the fall semester yet was able to step right in and make a impact on the field. It was an extremely quick –and impressive– transition. He has the ideal combo of size and athleticism the Cowboys are looking for at the position. He looks like a future playmaker.