Greg McElroy Names College Football Team That Has 'Too Many Unknowns'

Greg McElroy Names College Football Team That Has 'Too Many Unknowns' originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The 2024 college football season was a disaster for several programs hoping to take advantage of the opportunity to make the College Football Playoff in the inaugural year of the 12-team format.

The Oklahoma State Cowboys appeared ready to compete after playing for the Big 12 championship in 2023 and finishing with a 10-4 record. Although the Cowboys were set to return much of their roster in 2024, their season quickly unraveled.

Oklahoma State started the year with a 3-0 record but then went on to lose nine consecutive games, ending the season with their worst performance since 1991. Now, the team is aiming for a comeback.

On his podcast "Always College Football," ESPN's Greg McElroy mentioned that some believe Oklahoma State can return to contention in the conference; however, he does not share that optimism.

"There are some people who are very knowledgeable about some of the transfers who have been brought in for Oklahoma State, and they believe that they be a legitimate contender this year," McElroy said. "I'm not there just yet. There are too many unknowns right now. Massive overhaul amongst the staff."

McElroy mentioned the hiring of Todd Grantham as the new defensive coordinator, taking over for Bryan Nardo. Last season, Oklahoma State's defense was among the weakest in college football, ranking 132nd out of 133 teams in total defense.

The defense ranked 131st in passing yards allowed, 128th in rushing yards allowed and 125th in scoring defense. Additionally, the Cowboys struggled to create turnovers, forcing only 15 throughout the entire season.

Grantham has extensive experience in coaching. He served as the defensive line coach for the New Orleans Saints for the past two seasons. Prior to that, he was the defensive coordinator at Florida, Mississippi State, Louisville and Georgia.

He hopes to revive the team and lead them back into contention for a conference title and a spot in the College Football Playoff this upcoming season.

Oklahoma State will kick off the year against the University of Tennessee-Martin on Aug. 28 at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Related: David Pollack Names Major College Football Rivalry That Should be Renewed

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.