Oklahoma State University’s football season has officially come to an end following a narrow 20-13 defeat against Iowa State University on November 18, 2023, at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater. This loss marked the culmination of a challenging season for the Cowboys, finishing with a record of 1-11 and securing their second consecutive winless year in conference play.
The defeat raised several questions about the future of the program as they look to rebuild. Among those queries is whether Zane Flores can secure a starting position for the 2026 season. Flores stepped into the starting role after Hauss Hejny sustained a season-ending injury early in the year. His performance throughout the season has been inconsistent, and while he demonstrated flashes of potential, his final game statistics—a total of 202 passing yards and one interception—highlighted ongoing challenges in competing at a high level within the Big 12 conference.
In addition to assessing individual performances, the game also served as a farewell for the senior players on the team. Despite the disappointing season, those participating in their final collegiate game were able to engage in traditional Senior Day activities. Although the outcome did not provide the celebratory conclusion they hoped for, it offered an opportunity for these athletes to make their mark one last time against the Cyclones.
The atmosphere at Boone Pickens Stadium, however, did not reflect the excitement some anticipated following the recent hiring of a new head coach. Despite an increase in buzz surrounding the program, the crowd on a blustery Saturday morning was notably subdued. With kickoff at 11:00 a.m. and the Cowboys struggling with a record of 1-10, attendance was likely impacted. Nevertheless, home support remained a consistent theme throughout the season, and there was a hope that fans would rally to give the team a spirited sendoff after enduring a challenging season.
As Oklahoma State embarks on a new chapter, the lessons learned during this season will serve as a foundation for rebuilding efforts aimed at regaining competitive stature in the Big 12. The focus will now shift to recruiting and developing talent that can bring the program back to prominence.
