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Gina Mizell: Joe Mitchell staying at Oklahoma State

Gina Mizell answered questions from readers in today's Power Lunch Chat. Participate in our Power Lunch Chats Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. at NewsOK.com/sports.

By Gina Mizell | Published: July 26, 2012 Comment on this article

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Hey everyone. Welcome to another OSU Power Lunch chat. Lots to talk about with Big 12 Media Days happening this week. It was my first time to talk to Gundy and several players in 3-4 months or so. Let's get to it.

Would you please give an initial opinion on the d-line? Depth/quality/comparison to last year ... Will the Pokes be able to get consistent pressure with the front 4 only?

The depth/quality is the best it's been since Gundy has been the head coach. The depth at DT has allowed Nigel Nicholas to move to his natural position of DE. Cooper Bassett is now on the edge for good, as well. I expect Calvin Barnett to make an immediate impact. There are obviously some holes to fill at end with Blatnick/Richetti both gone. That will be an interesting position battle to watch during fall camp and at the early part of the season. Bassett is clearly looked at as a leader of this team--his selection to appear at B12 Media Days is an example of that--and Ryan Robinson is much-improved in his second season since coming over from junior college. There's a chance a freshman will need to contribute right away at end, though.

Does Joe Mitchell leaving [give] an opportunity for Seth Jacobs to play early?

Woah, not so fast on Joe Mitchell leaving. I have never reported that, and the situation has been fluid for about two weeks now. I was actually told TODAY by a fantastic source that he was staying. So I guess that's me officially squashing that rumor.

Gina, any of the incoming freshman going to be borderline as far as qualifying?

Jesse Vester from Stillwater HS did not qualify and is at NEO. Other than him, as far as I know, everyone is qualified and has been in summer workouts and will be ready to go for fall camp.

The floor is open! Fire away if you've got a question.

What position groups have the most & least depth heading into Fall camp?

Most depth: linebacker. The group legitimately goes three deep and has tons of athleticism and speed. Least depth: there's a ton of inexperience behind Brod Brown and Justin Gilbert at corner, until Andrae May and Devin Hedgepeth come back from injury. D-end is the spot that needs to replace the most talent, since both starters from last season are gone.

Do you see any of the incoming freshmen starting or playing a big role next year?

I assume you mean besides Wes Lunt. Wide receiver C.J. Curry is the only other true freshman on the two-deep right now. I'd expect a freshman defensive end to get into the rotation, as well.

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