Photo via Yahoo Sports

Drew Mestemaker, stout second-half defense lead Oklahoma State past UCF

Oklahoma State’s defense delivered a decisive second-half performance to secure a 42-28 victory over Central Florida, snapping a close first half that ended in a 21-21 tie. The Cowboys’ turnaround began with a game-changing fumble recovery by Evan Jackson, who returned a backward pass from UCF’s Keyone Jenkins 28 yards for a touchdown, extending Oklahoma State’s lead to 35-21 with just over 10 minutes left.

The defense held UCF to just seven points in the second half, a stark contrast to the Knights’ earlier offensive output, while also capitalizing on a rare turnover by Caleb Hawkins, who lost a fumble for the first time in over 350 college touches. Oklahoma State’s offense, led by Drew Mestemaker, contributed significantly with 304 passing yards, two touchdown passes, and a rushing score, ensuring the Cowboys’ fourth consecutive win and a 4-1 start to the season.

Central Florida’s offense, despite a strong showing from Jenkins (265 yards, four touchdowns) and Josh Derry (11 catches, 84 yards, and a score), couldn’t overcome the Cowboys’ late-game defensive stand. The Knights’ late drive included a 1-yard touchdown catch by Grayson Brousseau, but Oklahoma State’s stout play sealed the win.

The victory also marked Oklahoma State’s second straight game against a Power Five opponent, reinforcing their status as a rising force in the Big 12.

Up nextCollege Football· 32m ago

Texas A&M football fans call for Marcel Reed’s benching amid another ugly performance vs. Missouri