OSU football: Health, intensity good as Cowboys returned to practice on Sunday

STILLWATER — Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy joked — or at least acted like he was joking — he’s holding his breath that his Cowboys remain in good health after coming back from a couple days off during their second straight open week.

The Cowboys practiced on Sunday, which is the typical start of their game-week routine, before Gundy gives the team Monday off.

“We’ve had really good practices, had a good practice (Sunday),” Gundy said. “They seem really focused and excited about getting back to work.”

The game against Iowa State on Saturday will start a stretch of four games in five weeks against the best teams in the Big 12, with Texas, Kansas State and OU on deck.

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“We’re gonna know a lot more about our team a month from now, just based on the wear-and-tear of the season and playing some teams that are talented with good quarterback play,” Gundy said. “That will really be the indicator of where we’re at as a football team.”