Leading up to WVU’s matchup against Oklahoma State, Neal Brown and Jordan Lesley took some time during Monday’s media availability to highlight the challenge that is Cowboys running back Ollie Gordon.
Brown certainly has not forgotten Gordon’s performance in Morgantown a season ago. The running back ran for a career high 282 yards and four touchdowns that included over 150 yards in the fourth quarter alone.
“He’s special. I don’t know if we have tackled him yet from last year’s fourth quarter but he is a special player. “
Gordon came into the season as the Big 12 preseason offensive player of the year. The recognition came after an incredible 1,614 rushing yards and 21 total touchdowns. However, the junior has gotten off to a slow start this season, averaging just 66.8 yards per game and 3.8 yards per carry.
Despite the slow start, Brown knows just how good Gordon is.
“He’s a great player. He’s going to be an NFL player. The thing that makes him so great is he’s got great size and speed so we got to make sure we get get multiple hats to the ball. We can’t ask our guys to be in one-on-one situations with him and always get him down.”
WVU defensive coordinator Jordan Lesley also added some input on the Cowboy star and also knows that the slow start will not trick the Mountaineers about how good he is.
“I’ve seen the kid at his best. He is an elite player and it was about this time last year where they found out ways to get him going.”
The Mountaineers will look to avenge their loss last season and improve to 2-0 in Big 12 play on Saturday, Oct. 5 at 4:00 pm.m ET. The game can be viewed on ESPN2.
