Stillwater, OK, October 12, 2025

In a surprising upset, the Oklahoma State Cowboys were defeated by the Houston Cougars 39-17 at Boone Pickens Stadium. Despite a strong start led by running back Ollie Gordon II, who rushed for 112 yards, the Cowboys struggled with turnovers and penalties, hindering their offensive potential. The loss drops their record to 4-2 and raises concerns as they prepare for their next Big 12 challenge against BYU.

Oklahoma State Cowboys Fall to Houston Cougars 39-17 in Week 7 Upset

Stillwater, OK – In a stunning upset at Boone Pickens Stadium, the Oklahoma State Cowboys suffered a 39-17 loss to the Houston Cougars during Week 7 of the college football season. The defeat drops the Cowboys’ record to 4-2, putting pressure on their Big 12 campaign as the season progresses.

Game Highlights: Early Promise Fades into Defensive Struggles

The Cowboys started strong, showing flashes of their offensive potential. Running back Ollie Gordon II led the ground game with 112 rushing yards, providing a solid foundation for the offense. However, the momentum shifted as turnovers and penalties plagued the team, preventing them from capitalizing on key opportunities. Houston’s offense, spearheaded by quarterback Zeon Chriss, took full advantage, amassing 285 passing yards and three touchdowns through the air. The Cougars’ balanced attack overwhelmed Oklahoma State’s defense, which struggled to contain explosive plays throughout the game.

By halftime, Houston held a commanding lead, and the second half saw the Cougars pull further ahead. Oklahoma State’s execution faltered, particularly in critical moments, leading to a lopsided scoreline. The loss marks a significant setback for the Cowboys, who entered the matchup with hopes of solidifying their standing in the conference.

Key Issues: Execution Errors and Defensive Lapses

Coaches and analysts pointed to penalties and execution errors as primary factors in the defeat. The Cowboys committed several infractions that extended Houston’s drives, allowing the Cougars to maintain possession and score efficiently. Defensively, Oklahoma State failed to generate consistent pressure on Chriss, giving him time to orchestrate his passing game. Gordon’s performance highlighted individual efforts, but the team’s overall cohesion was lacking, especially in the red zone where opportunities went unconverted.

This game exposed vulnerabilities that the Cowboys must address quickly. With the Big 12 schedule intensifying, small mistakes like these could prove costly in upcoming contests. Fan reactions in Stillwater have been vocal, with many expressing frustration over the team’s inability to sustain their early-season form.

Looking Ahead: Next Challenge Against BYU

Oklahoma State’s next opponent is BYU, a matchup that will test the team’s resilience. The Cowboys will need to regroup and make adjustments to their defensive schemes and penalty discipline. Offensively, building on Gordon’s rushing output could provide stability, but quarterback protection and play-calling will be crucial to avoid repeating the turnover issues seen against Houston.

The loss serves as a wake-up call for a program aiming to compete for a conference title. As the season moves into its midpoint, Oklahoma State faces a pivotal stretch where every game carries weight in the Big 12 standings. Adjustments in preparation and focus will be essential to rebound effectively.

Broader Context: Implications for the Big 12 Season

This Week 7 matchup was part of a busy slate in college football, but the upset resonates deeply in the Big 12. Houston’s victory boosts their confidence and potentially opens doors in a competitive conference landscape. For Oklahoma State, the defeat disrupts what was shaping up as a promising campaign. The Cowboys had started the season with back-to-back wins, showcasing a potent rushing attack led by Gordon. However, recent performances indicate areas for improvement, particularly on defense where stopping the pass has become a concern.

In the bigger picture, the Big 12 remains wide open, with multiple teams vying for playoff positioning. Oklahoma State’s schedule includes tough road games and rivalries that demand peak performance. The fanbase in Stillwater, known for its passionate support, is already calling for strategic tweaks to reignite the team’s momentum. As the Cowboys prepare for BYU, the focus will shift to internal corrections and maintaining team morale amid the disappointment.

College football’s unpredictability was on full display in this game, reminding teams that execution trumps talent alone. Oklahoma State now turns its attention to the next chapter, determined to use this loss as fuel for improvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score between Oklahoma State and Houston?

In a stunning upset at Boone Pickens Stadium, the Oklahoma State Cowboys fell to the Houston Cougars 39-17 in Week 7 action.

How did Ollie Gordon II perform in the game?

Running back Ollie Gordon II managed 112 yards for the Cowboys.

What were the main reasons for Oklahoma State’s loss?

Despite a strong start, OSU’s defense faltered, allowing Houston’s quarterback Zeon Chriss to throw for 285 yards and three touchdowns. Coach Mike Gundy expressed disappointment, noting penalties and execution errors as key issues.