Oklahoma State football notebook: Despite bowl surprise, timing of game gives Cowboys good schedule

But because that game is on Jan. 1, the schedule sets up nicely for OSU.

Players will have the next five or six days off, while coaches will be out recruiting. The players will also get time off for Christmas before heading to Dallas for the bowl game.

“By the game being played later, it does allow us to have more practices (before Christmas),” Gundy said, “which gives us an opportunity to work some younger players and get ready for the bowl.”

CLINT CHELF'S BOWL PRACTICE GOAL? RESPOND BETTER TO PASS RUSH

With four starts now under his belt, Clint Chelf will next get a large chunk of practice time with the first-team offense while the Cowboys prepare for their bowl game.

His biggest goal is to perform better against “Cover 0” defense, a straight man-to-man look with no deep safety that allows the defense to really pressure the quarterback.