Bowman’s Struggles and Potential
Alan Bowman, a seventh-year quarterback, has been the team’s starter for two seasons and has shown flashes of brilliance. Last year, Bowman racked up over 3,400 passing yards and led the Cowboys to several victories. However, this season has been a different story. Despite starting each game so far, Bowman’s numbers leave much to be desired. He’s completing just 60% of his passes with 11 touchdowns to six interceptions. While those stats don’t fully reflect his struggles, the offense’s overall lack of cohesion has raised red flags. The Cowboys’ attack has appeared stagnant and inconsistent, with their recent losses amplifying the concern.
In the game against Utah, Gundy made a notable mid-game switch, pulling Bowman in favor of redshirt sophomore Garret Rangel. However, the move failed to spark a turnaround, and Bowman’s experience remains a significant asset to the team. His chemistry with key receivers like Brennan Presley, De’Zhaun Stribling, and Rashod Owens suggests that Bowman might still be the best option if Oklahoma State wants to salvage this season.
But the bigger question remains: Can Bowman lead this team to the postseason, or is it time to look toward the future?
A Look Toward the Future
While Bowman may be the best option to win now, Oklahoma State’s chances of making the College Football Playoff are slim after two early losses. This reality may force the coaching staff to consider the bigger picture. Bowman, at 24, is in his final year of eligibility, meaning the Cowboys will need a new quarterback next season. The most logical successor is Rangel, a redshirt sophomore with plenty of potential. Though Rangel hasn’t outperformed Bowman, the experience gap between the two is shrinking, and the younger quarterback could benefit greatly from in-game reps this season.
Gundy could also look further down the depth chart to develop future talent, knowing that this season’s championship aspirations have been dampened. The idea of sitting Bowman might not sit well with fans or even the coaching staff, but it could be a strategic move to prepare for 2025. Rangel’s development could be expedited by gaining more time on the field, and the same could be said for other young quarterbacks on the roster.
The Balancing Act
Ultimately, Gundy faces a dilemma. Sticking with Bowman gives Oklahoma State the best chance to win in the short term, but pivoting to a younger quarterback could yield long-term benefits. This decision is particularly challenging given Bowman’s leadership and familiarity with the offensive playmakers. However, if the Cowboys continue to struggle, the pressure to make a change will only increase.
With Oklahoma State’s next few games crucial to determining the direction of their season, Gundy and his staff will need to weigh the immediate need for victories against the long-term development of their young quarterbacks. Whether Bowman stays under center or Rangel gets his chance, the Cowboys must figure out how to get back on track before the season slips away entirely.
In the end, the decision may come down to whether the Cowboys are willing to prioritize the future over the present. If the losses continue to mount, the time to hand the reins to Rangel may come sooner than expected.
