Ollie Gordon II Oklahoma State RB Dominates Spring Practice Ahead of 2025 Season
Ollie Gordon II is one of college football’s premier running backs. The Oklahoma State Cowboys star captured the nation’s attention in 2023 when he won the Doak Walker Award as the country’s top running back. His combination of size (6’1″, 230 pounds) and explosiveness makes him a formidable force that defenses struggle to contain.
Gordon’s transformation into a unanimous All-American and Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year represents one of college football’s most impressive developmental success stories. His vision and patience behind the line of scrimmage, coupled with his punishing running style, have NFL scouts projecting him as a potential early-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Cowboys’ workhorse possesses the rare blend of skills that translates seamlessly to the professional level.
Born January 15, 2004, Gordon has already demonstrated the durability and versatility required of an NFL running back. His profile on ESPN showcases impressive statistics that highlight his three-down capabilities. As Oklahoma State continues its Big 12 campaign, Gordon’s performance will be scrutinized by NFL decision-makers looking for their next franchise running back.
Contents
Early Life and High School Career
Ollie Gordon II was born in Fort Worth, Texas on January 15, 2004. His high school career at Euless Trinity High School set the foundation for his future success as a standout running back.
High School Achievements
At Euless Trinity High School, Gordon established himself as a dominant force on the football field. He was named the District 3-6A Co-Offensive MVP as a junior, showcasing his exceptional talent early in his high school career. His performance caught the attention of many, earning him the prestigious Fort Worth Star Telegram Male Athlete of the Year honors.
Gordon’s rushing abilities were evident throughout his high school tenure. He consistently racked up impressive yardage and touchdowns, demonstrating the combination of power, speed, and vision that would later become his trademark at the collegiate level.
High School Career Statistics:
| Year | Rushing Yards | Touchdowns | Accolades |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 1,200+ | 15+ | District 3-6A Honors |
| 2020 | 1,400+ | 20+ | Co-Offensive MVP, Athlete of the Year |
Recruitment
Gordon emerged as a four-star recruit during the recruitment process, attracting attention from multiple Division I programs. His combination of size (6’2″, 225 lbs) and running ability made him a coveted prospect in his class.
The Oklahoma State Cowboys ultimately won the recruiting battle for Gordon’s talents. He demonstrated his commitment to the program by enrolling early in the spring of 2022, giving himself additional time to adapt to the collegiate system and develop his skills before his freshman season.
Several Power 5 schools pursued Gordon, but Oklahoma State’s offensive scheme and history of developing NFL-caliber running backs likely played a significant role in his decision. His early enrollment signaled both his academic readiness and his eagerness to contribute to the Cowboys’ program immediately.
Collegiate Career at Oklahoma State
Ollie Gordon II’s journey at Oklahoma State has been marked by record-breaking performances and remarkable growth from a promising freshman to a dominant force in the Big 12 Conference.
Freshman Season Overview
Gordon’s freshman campaign offered glimpses of the star he would become. Playing behind established backs in the Oklahoma State rotation, he appeared in 11 games during the 2022 season. Despite limited touches, Gordon accumulated 258 rushing yards on 49 carries, averaging a solid 5.3 yards per attempt.
His most productive outing came against Kansas, where he rushed for 60 yards, showing flashes of the explosive playmaking ability that would define his later seasons. While his statistics were modest, coaches noted his natural instincts and powerful running style.
Gordon also contributed in the passing game, catching 9 passes for 98 yards. Though primarily used in specific packages and situations, his freshman campaign laid the foundation for his future development in the Cowboys’ offense.
Sophomore Year Contributions
Gordon’s sophomore season in 2023 represented one of the most spectacular breakouts in Oklahoma State football history. He rushed for 1,732 yards, establishing himself as the premier back in the Big 12 and earning conference Offensive Player of the Year honors.
His transformation into a workhorse back was remarkable. Gordon led the nation in rushing for much of the season, displaying a rare combination of power, speed, and vision. He scored 21 touchdowns on the ground while adding 330 receiving yards on 38 catches.
The accolades poured in as Gordon was named a first-team All-American and finished 7th in Heisman Trophy voting. His sophomore campaign catapulted him onto the national radar and established him as one of college football’s elite offensive weapons.
Game Log Highlights
Gordon’s most spectacular performance came against Kansas, where he produced an extraordinary 284 total yards – 168 rushing and 116 receiving. This dual-threat showcase made him the first Cowboy since Gerald Hudson in 1989 to record 100+ yards both rushing and receiving in a single game.
Against West Virginia, Gordon exploded for 282 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 29 carries. His dominance continued with 271 rushing yards against Cincinnati and 168 yards with three scores versus BYU.
Gordon’s Notable 2023 Performances:
| Opponent | Rushing Yards | TDs | Receptions | Receiving Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | 168 | 1 | 6 | 116 |
| West Virginia | 282 | 4 | 1 | 13 |
| Cincinnati | 271 | 2 | 2 | 19 |
| BYU | 168 | 3 | 3 | 15 |
Gordon’s consistency was particularly impressive, recording over 100 rushing yards in eight consecutive games during his record-breaking sophomore campaign.
Statistical Analysis
Ollie Gordon II has emerged as one of college football’s most productive running backs, combining impressive rushing totals with developing receiving skills. His statistical profile shows consistent improvement across multiple seasons at Oklahoma State.
Rushing Stats
Gordon’s rushing numbers have been nothing short of remarkable. During the 2024 season (still in progress), he’s already amassed 880 yards on 190 carries with 13 touchdowns, averaging a solid 4.6 yards per attempt.
His career statistics tell the story of a workhorse back. Over three seasons at Oklahoma State, Gordon has accumulated 2,920 rushing yards on 537 carries. This consistent production demonstrates his durability and reliability as a feature back.
In his most recent game, Gordon showcased his talents with 27 carries for 104 yards and two touchdowns. These numbers highlight his ability to handle a heavy workload while maintaining efficiency.
| Season | Carries | Yards | TDs | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 (in progress) | 190 | 880 | 13 | 4.6 |
| Career | 537 | 2,920 | 40* | 5.4 |
*Total TDs including receiving
Receiving Skills
While Gordon is primarily known for his rushing prowess, his receiving abilities have added another dimension to his game. He’s accumulated 585 receiving yards on 80 catches throughout his college career.
In his most recent outing, Gordon displayed his pass-catching capability with 4 receptions for 42 yards and a touchdown. This versatility makes him a three-down back who doesn’t need to leave the field in passing situations.
Despite these numbers, some NFL scouts have expressed concerns about his receiving skills. Draft analysts note a lack of receiving skills as one potential weakness in his otherwise impressive profile.
All-Purpose Running
Gordon’s all-purpose production makes him one of the most valuable offensive weapons in college football. His career total of 3,505 yards from scrimmage (2,920 rushing + 585 receiving) demonstrates his impact as both a runner and receiver.
His frame gives him unique advantages as an all-purpose back. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 225 pounds, Gordon combines power with enough speed to be effective in various offensive schemes.
Analytics support Gordon’s NFL potential as an all-purpose back. He profiles as a well-balanced running back with strong collegiate production and efficiency metrics that should translate well to the professional level.
Role in Oklahoma State Offense
Ollie Gordon II has emerged as the centerpiece of Oklahoma State’s offensive attack since his breakout 2023 season. His versatility and power running style have made him an essential component in the Cowboys’ game plan.
Running Back Dynamics
Gordon transformed from a promising freshman to the best running back in college football in 2023. His bruising running style combines power and vision, making him particularly effective between the tackles.
At 6’1″ and 225 pounds, Gordon possesses the ideal frame for an every-down back. His patience when hitting holes and ability to shed tacklers have been hallmarks of his game at Oklahoma State.
Despite facing increased defensive attention in 2024, Gordon has remained productive when given opportunities. His touchdown against Texas Tech demonstrated his nose for the end zone, as he scored the game-winning touchdown in a crucial conference matchup.
Gordon’s consistency as the primary ball carrier is reflected in his statistics:
| Season | Rushing Yards | Touchdowns | Yards Per Carry |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 1,732 | 21 | 6.1 |
| 2024* | 697 | 7 | 4.2 |
*2024 stats through seven games
Passing Game Integration
Gordon is primarily known for his ground attack, but he’s also developed as a receiving option out of the backfield. Each season, his hands have improved, making him a reliable check-down target for Oklahoma State quarterbacks.
He contributed two catches for 20 yards against Texas Tech, showing his ability to create mismatches against linebackers in coverage. His route-running has become more sophisticated, though NFL scouts still consider this an area for improvement.
Gordon’s development as a pass-blocker has been crucial for Oklahoma State’s offensive protection schemes. His willingness to take on blitzing defenders has kept quarterbacks upright in critical passing situations.
One limitation in his game is that he hasn’t shown elite receiving skills compared to some other top running back prospects, which could affect his draft position.
Offensive Scheme Fit
Gordon thrives in Oklahoma State’s balanced attack that features power running concepts. The Cowboys’ offensive line has been tailored to maximize Gordon’s north-south running style.
Coach Mike Gundy has built significant portions of the playbook around Gordon’s abilities, often using him as the offensive focal point. His effectiveness in short-yardage situations has been particularly valuable in the red zone.
When defenses stack the box against Gordon, Oklahoma State has utilized play-action passes effectively. This strategic approach has helped the Cowboys maintain offensive balance.
The trust placed in Gordon is evident by his usage. He was ranked as the No. 10 running back in his recruiting class, but has exceeded those expectations to become the offensive centerpiece. His development trajectory suggests he could continue improving his NFL draft stock with consistent performance.
Noteworthy Performances
Ollie Gordon II established himself as one of the most dominant running backs in college football through several standout games. His combination of power, vision, and explosiveness allowed him to take over contests and become a workhorse for Oklahoma State.
Memorable Games
Against BYU, Gordon delivered a performance for the ages. He rushed for over 200 yards, breaking multiple tackles and showcasing his elite vision in the open field. His three touchdowns, including a momentum-shifting 68-yard burst in the third quarter, demonstrated why NFL scouts are drooling over his potential.
The Tulsa game highlighted Gordon’s complete skill set. He accumulated 164 all-purpose yards, caught six passes out of the backfield, and scored twice. Most impressively, he converted three crucial third downs in the fourth quarter to seal the victory.
In the Big 12 Championship, Gordon cemented his legacy with 184 rushing yards against a defense that had allowed just 89 rushing yards per game. His fourth-quarter heroics included breaking four tackles on a game-deciding touchdown run.
| Opponent | Rushing Yards | TDs | Receptions | Rec. Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYU | 212 | 3 | 2 | 24 |
| Tulsa | 136 | 2 | 6 | 28 |
| Big 12 Championship | 184 | 2 | 3 | 42 |
Key Matchups
Gordon’s battle against Texas Tech showcased his toughness and determination. Despite facing a stacked box on 70% of his carries, he still charged into the end zone for a critical score and finished with 118 yards.
When matched up against elite linebackers, Gordon consistently won with his combination of size (6’1″, 230 lbs) and speed. His official 4.61 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine confirmed what defenders learned the hard way—he’s deceptively fast for his build.
Gordon showed remarkable growth in pass protection, particularly against blitz-heavy defenses. He neutralized 14 blitzers across three key conference games, allowing just one quarterback pressure. This complete skill set has him projected as a top-50 selection in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Strengths and Skills
Ollie Gordon II brings a standout skill set to the running back position that has made him one of the top prospects for the upcoming NFL Draft. His combination of physical power, deceptive speed, and natural instincts helped him climb to seventh in Heisman voting in 2023.
Physical Attributes
Gordon possesses the prototypical build of a modern NFL bell-cow back. At 6’1″ and 210 pounds, he combines impressive size with functional strength that translates directly to his punishing running style. His tackle-breaking abilities have become his calling card, allowing him to consistently gain yards after contact.
What separates Gordon is how he uses his frame. He maintains excellent pad level through contact and employs a powerful stiff arm that defenders struggle to overcome. This physical dominance particularly shines in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
Gordon also demonstrates impressive effort in pass protection, a crucial skill that will help him stay on the field for all three downs at the next level. His willingness to square up against blitzing linebackers has caught scouts’ attention.
Agility and Speed
Despite his larger frame, Gordon shows surprising agility for his size. He changes direction efficiently, particularly when navigating traffic at the line of scrimmage. His footwork and patience allow him to set up blocks effectively.
Gordon’s acceleration through holes is immediate and decisive. Once he finds daylight, he can reach sufficient top-end speed to break off chunk plays. This big-play ability might surprise NFL defenses who see him primarily as a power back.
His 2023 statistical production showcases this balance of power and speed:
| Category | Total | NCAA Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 1,732 | 5th |
| Yards Per Carry | 6.1 | 12th |
| Touchdowns | 21 | 3rd |
| Runs 20+ Yards | 14 | 4th |
Vision and Instincts
Gordon’s football IQ manifests in his exceptional vision and instincts. He processes defensive alignments quickly and identifies cutback lanes with remarkable consistency. This natural feel for running lanes allows him to maximize available yardage on nearly every carry.
His running style particularly thrives in gap and power schemes where his momentum and decisiveness create immediate advantages. Gordon shows excellent patience behind his blockers, waiting for plays to develop before exploding through openings.
Gordon also demonstrates advanced situational awareness. He understands when to fight for extra yards and when to protect the football in critical moments. This football maturity, combined with his physical gifts, explains why many scouts now view him as the top running back in the class.
Areas for Improvement
While Ollie Gordon II has proven himself as a dominant force in college football, no prospect is without flaws. His transition to the NFL will require addressing specific weaknesses that could impact his professional ceiling.
Ball Security
Gordon’s ball security issues remain a legitimate concern for NFL scouts. During his Oklahoma State career, he’s put the ball on the ground more often than teams would like from a feature back. In 2023, despite his remarkable 1,732-yard season, Gordon recorded 6 fumbles – a red flag that could limit his usage in critical situations at the next level.
The Cowboys coaching staff has worked with him on proper carrying technique, but Gordon still shows a tendency to get careless when fighting for extra yards. This becomes particularly problematic in short-yardage or goal-line situations.
NFL teams value ball security enormously, and this issue could potentially drop Gordon from a day one selection to the second round if not addressed in his final collegiate season.
Pass Protection
Despite his impressive physical frame at 6-foot-2 and 220 pounds, Gordon’s pass protection skills remain underdeveloped. He possesses the size necessary to be effective in this area but lacks consistent technique and awareness.
His deficiencies stem primarily from recognition issues rather than physical limitations. Gordon sometimes struggles to identify blitzing linebackers and fails to position himself correctly between the defender and quarterback.
Teams have also noted his inconsistent effort in protection drills. This limitation, combined with his lack of receiving skills, means Gordon may not be a true three-down back at the NFL level initially.
For NFL coaches, this weakness could restrict his playing time to primarily early downs and short-yardage situations until he develops in this critical area.
Future Projections and Outlook
Ollie Gordon II’s NFL Draft stock appears to be in flux heading into the 2025 selection process. His junior season failed to match the lofty expectations set by his stellar sophomore campaign.
Gordon projects primarily as a gap scheme offensive fit and backup running back at the next level. NFL evaluators find his frame and power running ability attractive, though concerns persist.
The Oklahoma State product’s decision to forgo his senior year despite a disappointing 2024 campaign reflects confidence in his professional potential. However, his draft position remains uncertain.
Current Draft Projections:
| Projection | Round | Overall Pick Range |
|---|---|---|
| High-end | 3rd | 85-95 |
| Mid-range | 4th | 110-125 |
| Low-end | 5th | 140-160 |
His lack of receiving skills and explosiveness have dampened his evaluation after once being considered among the premier backs in this class.
Gordon has been notably absent from several major mock drafts, suggesting analysts remain skeptical about his immediate NFL impact.
Teams with power-running schemes and need for backfield depth will likely target Gordon on day three. His Big 12 pedigree and physical tools provide a foundation for development.
NFL scouts will closely monitor his combine and pro day performances. They want to assess whether his collegiate production can translate to Sunday success.
