Glenn Spencer On Bedlam: ‘They’re a Different Beast’

On Monday, Oklahoma State defensive coordinator Glenn Spencer spoke with media about the Cowboys’ upcoming Bedlam Big 12 title game in Norman and how comfortable he feels going into Saturday.

“I’m never really comfortable,” said Spencer. I’m always on edge, and I think you have to be. Well, I have to be, and I have to think about all the ‘what ifs’ because I know they’re all good coaches.”

The Cowboys are two weeks removed from their best defensive performance, holding a top-40 offense in TCU almost scoreless in Fort Worth (a muffed punt gave TCU the ball on OSU’s 6-yard line, leading to their only score).

OSU is third in the Big 12 in scoring defense, allowing 27.2 points per game and ranked 12th nationally in turnover margin (behind only Kansas State in conference).

Spencer was asked about how to account for OU’s playmakers like Westbrook and Mixon.

“It’s tough. They’ve got great play makers and make good calls. Between their quarterbacks, running backs, tight ends and wide receivers, they lead the Big 12 in the top scoring offenses in the nation, so we have to execute what we’re doing. There’s going to be times when it’s one-on-one with those great play makers, and our players are going to have to make plays.”

Oklahoma actually boasts the best scoring offense. They’re tied with Louisville, averaging 45.3 points per game. A big reason for the Sooners’ success if their success on third downs. They are tied for third in the nation with a 52 percent conversion rate on third downs. (For reference, Oklahoma State is 39th at 44 percent).

Spencer on how important first and second downs are.

“Practicing the process of that first down and powering through those second downs is what’s going to do it,” said Spencer. “In my 30 years of doing this, I’ve learned that’s the most important thing. If we do that enough, hopefully things will turn out well. They don’t all the time, but that’s the goal.

“This thing has a life of its own,” added Spencer. “They’re a different beast.”