Oklahoma State football: Joseph Randle's fumbling a concern for Mike Gundy

How big of a concern are these fumbles from arguably one of the most versatile offensive weapons in the country?

OSU coach Mike Gundy said during his Monday press conference that despite Randle being a great player — he's a preseason All-Big 12 selection — if he keeps putting the ball on the turf, the Cowboys will have to play somebody else.

“It's not anything personal,” Gundy said. “Joe needs to be in our offense. Joe's versatile — he can block, he can catch, he can run. He makes plays. He's experienced, he's tough, he's been a good leader. But if he puts the ball on the ground, he can't play. It's that simple.”

Offensive coordinator Todd Monken would not go as far as to say Randle now has a reputation as a “fumbler,” but echoed that it is an issue.

“It's hard to say he's a fumbler,” Monken said. “Joe's cost us at times, though, with fumbles, as (quarterbacks have with) interceptions or I have with poor calls. To put that on him probably is a little strong, but it is something that all of our backs (need to work on). The bottom line is if you turn the ball over, you're not going to win.”

MONKEN WOULD PREFER LUNT NOT ENTER RECORDS CHASE

Just two games into his career, Cowboys freshman Wes Lunt has the fourth-best passing game (436 yards) in OSU history and a tie for the school record for attempts (60), all compiled in Saturday's loss at Arizona.

But Monken hopes Lunt's not heading for some trend.

“I hope that doesn't continue,” Monken said, “that means we're behind a lot. I don't see us wanting to throw it that often.