Surprising 2015 success could spark Oklahoma State in 2016

12:49 AM ET

STILLWATER, Okla. — Last November, as Oklahoma State quarterback Mason Rudolph’s pinpoint pass dropped out of the air into James Washington’s waiting arms, with the Cowboys receiver turning on the speed to outrace a TCU defender for a first-quarter touchdown, it was easy to forget both players had only been on campus for a year and a half.

The duo didn’t look like sophomores as they sparked Oklahoma State by connecting five times for 184 yards and three touchdowns during the Cowboys’ 49-29 win in a battle of top-15 teams. Rudolph and Washington’s arrival among the Big 12’s best at their positions coincided with Oklahoma State’s team success.

Everyone could see success was coming, yet it feels like it might have came a year earlier than expected.

“We had a good feel for our team last year but I don’t know that anyone thought we were going to go 10-0,” coach Mike Gundy said.

Jordan Sterns and Oklahoma State want to be more vocal and intense this season after ending 2015 with three straight losses. Jared Wickerham/Getty Images

Realistically, 2016 was the season that should have been circled as the time Oklahoma State would see the fruits of the 2014 season blossom. 2014 was when Rudolph, Washington and several other freshmen played significant roles during a 7-6 season.

Those youngsters who got thrown into the fire two seasons ago are now upperclassmen who have big-game experience, which could help the Cowboys be a real …

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