Oklahoma State shows three backs are better than one

Hunter, the nation's fifth-leading rusher, became a lead blocker instead of the primary ball carrier as OSU's No. 3 running back cruised into the end zone. That duo has combined with freshman Joseph Randle give the Pokes three different tailbacks might be starters.

“All three are different,” OSU offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen said. “And all three are capable of being the main guy. If we were going to play one running back, all three of them could be that one running back.”

Hunter is one of the best running backs in the nation. One of three finalists for the Doak Walker Award, Hunter has rushed for 1,461 yards and 16 touchdowns. He's tough to tackle in the open field and has underrated strength and durability.

“Kendall is Kendall,” Holgorsen said. “He's a guy you want to hand it to 30 times per game.”

Randle is one of the most versatile running backs in the Big 12 with his 1,074 all-purpose yards topping every other freshman in the conference. The Wichita, Kan., native has made screen plays among the most lethal in the Cowboys' arsenal.

“He's the best receiver of the three,” Holgorsen said. “We want to get Randle involved with a lot of third-down stuff. We can throw screens to him, throw it to him out of the backfield.”