Clemson Transfer on OSU: ‘They Have an Opportunity to Compete for a National Championship’

Oklahoma State’s razor-thin depth at cornerback was bolstered this week with the addition of Clemson graduate transfer Adrian Baker, who announced he’s Stillwater-bound following the conclusion of the spring semester.

The former Tiger made three starts for the national runner-up in 2015 and, had he not tore his ACL prior to the 2016 season, might’ve been one of the starters for the team that rolled past the Crimson Tide in the national title game in January.

The former four-star recruit from Hollywood, Florida, isn’t the type of athlete OSU lands. For one, OSU barely sniffs the Florida region. And landing a four-star recruit from the clutches of Gator country isn’t something Gundy and his mullet aren’t typically known for doing, much less attempting.

Nevertheless, winning is important to recruits. And the importance is only increased for a player with one year left in college hoping to make a final impression on NFL scouts. That’s part of why Baker chose to commit to OSU.

“I think they have an opportunity to compete for a national championship,” Baker told ESPN’s Jake Trotter. “I’m hoping I can come in there and help.”

Some people might not see Oklahoma State as a national brand, but Baker fully realizes what they’ve transformed into. He feels like he was in a similar situation a few years ago. In a phone interview with sideline reporter Robert Allen on Triple Play Radio this week, Baker drew parallels between his current and future schools and their respective rises to national prominence.

“I approach this situation the same way,” Baker said via The Oklahoman. “I look at Oklahoma State as like that team.”

Perhaps the best experience he brings as a player is his experience playing (and beating) the reigning Big 12 champion Sooners. Clemson bullied on Oklahoma in its two games during Baker’s time with the Tigers, and it’s an area of expertise he feels he can bring to help at OSU.

“In 2015, I had a big part on the defense, I played in the national championship,” Baker said. “I feel like I know what it takes. … If Oklahoma State can get over that hump and beat Oklahoma, I think that the sky is the limit. I think that the coaching staff and the guys that are there have done a good job of positioning the program to do that.

“I’ve been in big games. I’ve helped the team win big games, beat Oklahoma twice. I’m not saying I’m the missing piece or anything of that nature, but I feel I can bring (something) to the table.”

If he’s the missing piece that helps Oklahoma State get over the Sooners hump and into the top spot of the Big 12 standings, then this pick up will be even bigger than what some think. Baker will no doubt be a valuable piece if nothing but for depth alone. So if he can show out against the Big 12’s best, much like he did at Clemson, then OSU might have a chance to do what it hasn’t done since the 2011 season: Win the Big 12.

And maybe more.