Entering the 2011 season, Oklahoma State's offense was a well-oiled machine. Even with the departure of Dana Holgorsen, the Cowboys returned Brandon Weeden, Justin Blackmon and one of the best offensive lines in the nation. Newly named OC Todd Monken was charged with the task of building off the spread attack that had brought the Cowboys so much success under Holgorsen.
Waiting in the wings was a true freshman.
J.W. Walsh was pegged to be the next starting QB for the Pokes. Paired with his best friend and high school teammate, Josh Stewart, Walsh looked forward to the possibility of being part of the next great tandem in Oklahoma State football.