John Holcomb: Cowboys Look To End Losing Streak Against Arizona State On Homecoming

In the span of eight days, OSU has given up 38 points twice in losses, but the feeling after BYU and Baylor couldn’t be more different.

The Cowboys showed fight, energy, and enthusiasm before BYU’s dramatic game-winner in Provo. In Waco, there were moments of the same, but the overall takeaway is disheartening.

A season-high 12 penalties and too many missed tackles are troubling signs. A losing streak that now sits at five games is the longest in a decade.

That 2014 squad rallied for a Bedlam win in Norman to become bowl-eligible, then beat a favored Washington team in the Cactus Bowl, and momentum returned to the program.

That team never let go of the Cowboy Culture. Injuries that season also impacted things dramatically, just like this fall.

Is it tougher now in the age of the transfer portal and NIL? Is individual accountability still as important to players, especially when preseason goals of a Big 12 title and a playoff berth are out of reach? Or is there more focus on the next potential move and money?

The Cowboys still have key contributors who are playing hard and trying to lead. It will be interesting to see who continues to follow, despite the frustration of games lost. OSU must win three of the last four to keep an impressive bowl streak alive.

Finishing the “right way” isn’t just part of the Cowboy Culture; it commands respect in every walk of life, regardless of circumstances.

Will there be fight, energy, and enthusiasm? The homecoming night matchup with Arizona State on Saturday would be a great place to show it.

Related: Baylor Beats Oklahoma State 38-28, Cowboys Remain Winless In Big 12 Games