Oklahoma State football notebook: 'In Case of Emergency' QB?

The common denominator in the three losses: an offensive slump, with the team seemingly struggling to adapt to defenses that have dropped into deep coverage and taken away the long balls that were so common earlier in the season.

The Mountaineers scored 14 points in losses to Texas Tech and Kansas State and needed two overtimes to get to 38 in last week's loss to TCU.

“It's the formula: back everybody up," quarterback Geno Smith told reporters this week. "Obviously, teams are very mindful of the fact we have a potent passing offense and it's very hard to throw against eight-man coverages every down.”

While teams have backed off, West Virginia hasn't taken advantage on the ground, rushing for a combined 296 yards in the three losses, averaging just 3.1 per carry.

“As of late, teams are kind of disrespecting our run game,” Smith said.

BARNETT COURT CASE CONTINUED

Oklahoma State defensive tackle Calvin Barnett appeared in court Wednesday for a driving under suspension charge, and the case will be continued until Dec. 17.

Wednesday's appearance pertained to Barnett's Oct. 30 driving charge, his sixth in the past six months. He's also scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 19 to face May charges of driving under suspension (twice), driving without insurance, speeding and failing to register a vehicle within 30 days of purchase.  All charges are misdemeanors.

Barnett, who has started every game for the Cowboys so far this season, has tallied 15.5 tackles (4.5 for loss), four quarterback hurries and a pass break up.