Oklahoma State’s offensive line is led by one of the best centers in the country.

On Friday, the Rimington Trophy candidates list was released and OSU center Joe Michalski has earned a spot. Since the FBS’s most outstanding center wins the award each year, Michalski has a chance to be the first Cowboy to win the award. In 2023, Michalski received honorable mention All-Big 12 and Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year.

Oregon’s Jackson Powers-Johnson won the Rimington last season. No other Big 12 player has won since Nebraska’s Dominic Raiola won the first award in 2000, and only three other Big 12 players are on the 2024 watch list alongside Michalski.

Michalski’s chances of winning the award will likely depend on the statistics of other players, particularly those of star running back Ollie Gordon. Last season, Gordon led the nation in rushing and repeatedly praised his offensive line.

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“Just seeing what we did last year, having them back, is a huge accomplishment,” Gordon said at OSU’s media day. “Teams all over the country wish they could get all five of their fifth- or sixth-year offensive linemen back, and for us to actually do that is a huge deal. We’re all excited, especially me. I get to run behind them again.”

Still, Michalski’s stats speak for themselves. Last season, he was one of only two players to complete more than 600 pass-blocking snaps without allowing a sack.

He also led one of the best offensive lines in the country and was in the top 15 in fewest sacks and tackles for loss allowed. With a veteran offensive line returning around Michalski, the Cowboys appear to have one of the best front fives in the FBS again.

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