Oklahoma State Scouting Key North Texas Transfer Portal Targets in Upcoming Bowl Game

The upcoming Isleta New Mexico Bowl is a critical scouting opportunity for Oklahoma State. The Cowboys will closely watch No. 25 North Texas face San Diego State on December 27. New OSU head coach Eric Morris just left North Texas, making this game a direct talent evaluation.

Several standout transfer portal targets from Morris’s former team are playing. Oklahoma State needs immediate help at key offensive positions. This bowl game serves as a live audition for potential future Cowboys.

Freshman Phenom Caleb Hawkins Tops OSU Wish List

All eyes will be on true freshman running back Caleb Hawkins. The Shawnee, Oklahoma native led the nation with 23 rushing touchdowns this season. He also ranked near the top in total rushing and all-purpose yards.

His coach at North Texas was Patrick Cobbs. Cobbs was just hired as Oklahoma State’s run game coordinator. This existing relationship makes Hawkins a logical and highly coveted portal candidate for the Pokes. A strong bowl performance could solidify OSU’s interest.

Quarterback and Receiver Talent Also in the Mix

The quarterback situation is another major point of focus. North Texas redshirt freshman Drew Mestemaker led the country with over 4,000 passing yards. Reports suggest he is likely to enter the transfer portal after the season.

He is a perfect schematic fit for Morris’s offensive system at Oklahoma State. Key receivers from the nation’s top offense are also potential portal entries. According to ESPN, this makes the bowl a vital evaluation tool for OSU’s future roster construction.

New Staff Connections Provide a Clear Inside Track

The hiring of Patrick Cobbs is a significant advantage. Cobbs, the 2025 FootballScoop Running Backs Coach of the Year, developed Hawkins. His insight into the North Texas roster is invaluable for Oklahoma State’s recruitment strategy.

This inside knowledge extends beyond just the players. The staff understands the schemes, strengths, and tendencies of each potential target. This creates a unique evaluation window that most other programs simply do not have.

The Isleta New Mexico Bowl is far more than a postseason exhibition for Oklahoma State. It is a live showcase for critical transfer portal targets who could define the Cowboys’ 2025 season. Tuning in provides the first look at the next wave of OSU talent.

Thought you’d like to know

Why does this bowl game matter so much for Oklahoma State?

New head coach Eric Morris and his staff just came from North Texas. They are using this game to evaluate former players who may enter the transfer portal and fill immediate needs on the OSU roster.

Who is the top player Oklahoma State is watching?

Freshman running back Caleb Hawkins is the primary target. He led the nation in rushing touchdowns and is from Oklahoma, making him a natural fit for the Cowboys’ new offensive system.

Are any North Texas quarterbacks being considered?

Yes. Redshirt freshman Drew Mestemaker, who led the country in passing yards, is a key prospect. He is reportedly portal-bound and would be a major addition for Oklahoma State’s quarterback room.

What advantage does OSU have in recruiting these players?

OSU’s new run game coordinator, Patrick Cobbs, was just their coach at North Texas. This existing relationship and familiarity with Morris’s system gives the Cowboys a significant inside track.

When can fans watch this scouting opportunity?

The Isleta New Mexico Bowl kicks off at 3:45 p.m. MT on Saturday, December 27. The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN for fans to follow the action.

Trusted Sources: ESPN, Associated Press, FootballScoop.