Texas A&M game could give clue about how good Oklahoma State is

A big reason for OSU's 3-0 record thus far is the passion the Pokes entered the season with thanks to the disrespect they felt they were getting nationally. If national perception changes from disrespect to accolades, will the hunger remain?

Why: A win would create great momentum and potential 5-0 record heading into Lubbock.

Mike Gundy likely could not invent a better scenario with OSU's youthful roster than the Pokes beginning the season with a 4-0 record, including a national television win over Big 12 South rival. With Louisiana-Lafayette looming Oct. 8, the Cowboys could travel to Lubbock on Oct. 16 with a 5-0 record and tons of confidence.

Why not: There still are plenty of games left regardless of the outcome.

Friday is the first day of October, so needless to say, there is plenty of football left to be played. No matter how good OSU looks in September, the injury bug could hit or the Cowboys' youth could emerge via game-altering mistakes in the latter half of the season. It's a marathon not a sprint.

Why: A win over Texas A&M would be OSU's third-straight over the Aggies, a fact that cannot be underrated in recruiting.

The Cowboys often go head-to-head against Texas A&M in recruiting battles for some of the best players Texas has to offer each year. Winning head-to-head battles on the field leads to head-to-head wins on the recruiting trails. The better OSU recruits, the sooner the Pokes can compete for championships.

Why not: A&M was picked to finish third in the Big 12 south, yet almost lost to Florida International.

The Cowboys could win and still have questions remain about their long-term potential, especially if they win an ugly, turnover-filled game on national television. An unimpressive win could lead to people saying Nebraska will be their first true test instead of the Aggies.