As the 2024 college football season kicks off, Oklahoma State University (OSU) prepares to host South Dakota State in a highly anticipated opener, with all 52,305 seats sold. The Cowboys, ranked 18th and coming off a 10-win season, aim for a Big 12 championship despite mixed expectations from analysts. Notably, ESPN's College GameDay crew failed to include OSU in their playoff predictions, with guest picker WWE star Sheamus backing Notre Dame for a national title. Meanwhile, the crew picked Utah and West Virginia as favorites for the Big 12 conference, leaving OSU without support despite being a top contender. OSU's success this season hinges on their challenging early schedule against Utah, Kansas State, and West Virginia. With a strong roster, including standout players like Ollie Gordon II, the Cowboys look to prove doubters wrong and secure a playoff berth.