Oklahoma State will be without defensive starters Jaleel Johnson and Tate Romney against Kansas State after both were injured last week. Their absences further thin a defense already missing safety Mose Phillips, while tight end Carson Kolb and two other players are also out.

By the Numbers
  • Romney has 63 tackles, second-most on the team, and a team-high 7 tackles for loss.
  • Johnson has 16 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 2 sacks.
  • Kolb has 7 catches for 58 yards and 2 touchdowns this season.
Yes, But

Oklahoma State has options to cover the losses: linebacker Isaiah Chisom has 42 tackles, and coach Eric Morris said several tight ends have stepped up while Kolb is out. Still, the Cowboys are short on linebacker depth, and Johnson’s absence removes a key piece from the defensive-line rotation.

What's Next

Oklahoma State faces Kansas State at noon Saturday in Manhattan. Kolb’s return is not imminent; Morris said Tuesday that he could be out another week or two.

Bottom Line

The Cowboys must replace two of their most productive defenders on the road, putting added pressure on their depth and on the remaining defensive starters.