STILLWATER, Okla. — Oklahoma State's defense delivered an impressive second-half performance against Colorado on Saturday, but head coach Eric Morris knows there is still an area that needs improvement as the Cowboys prepare for their next Big 12 challenge.
That challenge comes Saturday against Iowa State, which enters the matchup with the nation's top-ranked red zone offense. The No. 24 Cowboys (5-2, 3-1 Big 12) will travel to Ames looking to build on their 57-24 Homecoming victory over Colorado. But limiting scoring opportunities inside the 20-yard line will be a major priority against the Cyclones.
During Tuesday's media availability, Morris emphasized the importance of keeping Iowa State out of the end zone when the Cyclones reach scoring territory.
"Somewhere we need to make them at least kick field goals," Morris said.
He also stressed that the Cowboys must limit Iowa State's opportunities to reach the red zone in the first place.
"They're creative once they get down there," Morris said. "Watching their tape, they score in a variety of ways."
Iowa State has converted all seven of its red zone opportunities in Big 12 play, scoring five touchdowns and two field goals. The Cyclones' ability to finish drives presents a significant challenge for an Oklahoma State defense still working to establish consistency.
Beyond Iowa State's red zone efficiency, Morris pointed to the mobility of the Cyclones' quarterback as another concern.
"A QB who can hurt you with his feet," Morris said. "Not just designed, but can also hurt you scrambling."
Morris said Oklahoma State must maintain disciplined pass-rush lanes to prevent the quarterback from escaping pressure and extending plays.
"That showed up for us a little last week, and we'll have to be disciplined in our pass-rush lanes," Morris said.
Containing those scrambles could prove especially important near the goal line, where one missed assignment can turn a potential field goal attempt into a touchdown.
Oklahoma State nose tackle Saadiq Clements echoed his head coach's assessment, acknowledging that the Cowboys have allowed too many touchdowns in recent weeks.
"There is room for improvement these last couple of weeks," Clements said. "We emphasize that and force more field goals there in the red zone. Teams been scoring a lot on us."
The Cowboys demonstrated their ability to make adjustments against Colorado. After surrendering 24 first-half points and trailing 24-23 at halftime, Oklahoma State shut out the Buffaloes over the final two quarters while scoring 34 unanswered points.
The defensive turnaround included a fumble recovery by Quinton Hammonds and two interceptions from cornerback LaDainian Fields, helping Oklahoma State seize control of the game. However, the Cowboys know they cannot rely solely on second-half adjustments against an Iowa State offense that has capitalized on its scoring opportunities.
Oklahoma State enters Saturday's matchup with momentum after returning to the AP Top 25. Iowa State (3-4, 1-3 Big 12) is looking to rebound from a 39-3 loss at Arizona, but the Cyclones have demonstrated the ability to finish drives when they reach the red zone.
For Oklahoma State, the formula is straightforward: prevent explosive plays, maintain defensive discipline and make Iowa State settle for three points instead of seven. As the Cowboys pursue their sixth victory and bowl eligibility, their performance inside the 20-yard line could be one of Saturday's deciding factors.
