James Hackney
The Cowboys stayed perfect along with winning their 19th consecutive Bedlam. They scored bonus points in six matches and only gave up two takedowns on the day. The 34 points scored by OSU is six more than they scored in December and the most they’ve scored since a 41-2 win in 2019. The Sooners scored some upsets however with wins at 149, 174, and 285. They scored as many team points as last time but the three wins is one more than they had in December. OU’s dual season is now over as they finish 6-6 on the year while OSU has one obstacle remaining for an undefeated season against Iowa at home. Overall here are my thoughts for both teams.
Coach Kish has had an up and down season so far and their dual record shows it. Their 50% win percentage is the lowest since 2021, although the past two seasons it was 53% and 57%. They had some young guys look solid with Hendricksen and KJ Evans having flashes. Today they got upset wins from McDougald, Picklo, and Heindselman as well. They were without Stephen Buchanan as well in what could have been an eight point swing if he wrestled and won. At the end of the day it’s all about March and if these wrestlers can finish the season strong and make a push for a top 20 finish it would be a very positive sign for the Sooners.
While neither wrestler blew their opponent out of the water today they did score big upsets. McDougald made it 2-0 against Williams, again scoring the only takedown of the match and showing some strong defense. Picklo flipped a 9-0 loss earlier this season, using his unique scrambling and flexibility to avoid takedowns before locking up a cradle for the takedown in overtime. That win broke a five match losing streak for Picklo while McDougald has now won three in a row. Wins like that don’t immediately vault them into title threats, but it does…
