Looking back at our Oklahoma State preseason predictions

Each year in our football preview, we have a picks grid with various categories about the Cowboys’ upcoming season.

With the 2012 season in the books, I thought it would fun to dig out my predictions and see how correct (or…incorrect) they were.

Remember that our special section had an election theme, which explains the categories.

The candidate (MVP): Joseph Randle

This was the safe pick, obviously, but the correct one. During a season where injuries created a revolving door at quarterback, knocked out OSU’s top wide receiver (Tracy Moore) and hit many other offensive skill players, Randle was durable and consistent and the Big 12′s best running back. He finished the season with more than 1,300 yards and 14 touchdowns.

The running mate (best player): Justin Gilbert

Whiffed here, didn’t I? But I, like many, thought Gilbert would continue to develop into a shutdown cornerback and continue to be a big-play threat on special teams. You know what happened. Zero interceptions. Too much cushion given to receivers. The occasional benching. OSU announced Sunday that Gilbert will return for his senior season, so he’ll have a chance to redeem himself. He certainly has the measurable skills to be an All-Big 12 player and a legitimate NFL prospect.

The dark horse (most overlooked): Daytawion Lowe

Back on the right track. Lowe led the Cowboys with 75 tackles, one sack, two interceptions, four pass breakups, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. And he probably still qualifies for the “overlooked” category. Yes, the OSU secondary struggled in 2012, particularly down the stretch. But Lowe was solid.

The newcomer (best new player): Calvin Barnett

Another good pick. Barnett was voted the Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year by the league’s coaches after a season where he recorded 30 tackles (8.5 for loss), one sack, four quarterback hurries and one pass breakup. The big defensive tackle made an immediate impact up front and helped solidify OSU’s rushing defense.