Devy Diamonds: Ollie Gordon, Running Back, Oklahoma State
Welcome to Devy Diamonds: Gordon was a three-star prospect out of Trinity High School in Euless, Texas. Gordon had over 15 Division-I offers before committing to Oklahoma State in February of 2021.
As a freshman, Gordon showed promise. He averaged five yards per carry for 308 yards. Plus, he contributed in the passing game with 12 receptions for 76 yards.
His sophomore campaign became his breakout season. Gordon took on the duties as lead back and ran for 1,732 yards to lead the nation. In total, he had over 2,000 combined yards with his 330 receiving yards. Those 330 receiving yards came from 39 receptions which equates to 8.5 yards-per-catch. Additionally, he had 22 total touchdowns, 21 of them being rushing touchdowns.
2024 Outlook: What to Expect
Ollie Gordon will enter the 2024 season with sky-high expectations following his monster season. Building on his impressive season, Gordon is expected to continue being a dominant force in the backfield. He will lead the Cowboy’s rushing attack with his blend of power, speed, and vision. There is the belief that he will not only match but potentially exceed his previous year’s production. Some may still doubt him, however, if he can replicate or exceed last year’s production then Gordon will solidify his status as one of the top running backs in the nation.
Additionally, Gordon is expected to take on a larger leadership role, both on and off the field. His experience and success position him as a key mentor for younger players, helping to elevate the overall performance of the team. With his proven ability to break tackles and make big plays, Gordon is also expected to be a focal point of opposing defenses. His impact will draw significant attention and create opportunities for his teammates. Gordon’s versatility as a runner and receiver out of the backfield will be crucial for Oklahoma State’s offensive strategy. Look for him to be a central figure in their quest for a conference championship and a potential spot in the College Football Playoffs.
Strengths:
- – Vision. Gordon demonstrates excellent vision, allowing him to find and exploit gaps in the defense.
- – Patience. His patience behind the line of scrimmage ensures he maximizes the effectiveness of his blocks.
- – Power and Physicality. He is known for his powerful running style, which makes him difficult to bring down. Gordon can break tackles and gain extra yards after contact.
- – Contact Balance. Few running backs have the strength and balance that Gordon possesses. Last season alone 60.9 percent of his yards came from yards-after-contact. He runs with brute force, as well as, using his quick feet and elusiveness to evade defenders.
- – Agility and Elusiveness. His agility allows him to make sharp cuts and evade tacklers. Gordon’s elusiveness makes him hard to pin down in open space.
- – Acceleration. Gordon hits the holes quickly and effectively. Off the snap, he is one of the best to make an impact in the first ten yards. His start speed is impressive and allows him to find his gaps quickly.
- – Receiving Ability. Gordon has good hands and can be a reliable target out of the backfield, adding a versatile dimension to his game.
Areas of Improvement
- – Ball Security. Although Gordon runs with strength and power he has had some fumbling issues. He had three fumbles last season. Improving his ball security is essential to minimize turnovers.
- – Route Running. While effective as a receiver out of the backfield, Gordon’s route running can be somewhat inconsistent. Refining his routes would enhance his effectiveness in the passing game.
- – Blocking technique. He is reliable in pass protection, but his technique can be inconsistent. Every running back has room for improvement when it comes to picking up blitzes. If Gordon can enhance his technique then it just opens up his opportunity to see the field even more.
- – Durability. Due to his physical running style, his durability will always be a concern. Staying healthy and managing his workload will be crucial for his long-term success.
- – Top End Speed. Although Gordon possesses great speed he lacks that top-end speed to blow the top off the secondary. His short area quickness is what makes him dangerous. If able to add that extra layer of speed he could become unstoppable.
Draft Stock: Eligible 2025
Consensus Projected Draft Capital: First Round Pick
Personal Projected Draft Capital: First Round Pick
Ideal Landing Spot: Cincinnati Bengals
Oklahoma State running back Ollie Gordon would be a fantastic fit for the Cincinnati Bengals. Hit ability to impact the game in multiple ways will open up the Bengals offensive attack. The Bengals’ offense, led by Joe Burrow, thrives on versatility and playmaking abilities. Gordon’s offensive techniques complement that philosophy. His ability to break tackles and maintain balance after contact would provide a reliable and consistent rushing attack. Moreover, Gordon’s proficiency as a receiver out of the backfield would add a new dimension to the Bengals’ offense. This will give Burrow an additional weapon to exploit mismatches and create big plays.
Additionally, Gordon’s strong work ethic makes him an ideal fit for the Bengals’ culture. Burrow has a winning leadership mentality that he also demands from his teammates. On the field, we see Gordon wants to win and be a part of a championship team. His experience of stepping into a leadership role will translate well to a professional setting. Adding a versatile and explosive player like Gordon would significantly enhance their offensive capabilities and provide the team with a reliable and dynamic option in the backfield. Gordon’s talent and potential make him an excellent candidate to thrive in Cincinnati’s high-powered offense, helping to push the team to new heights.
Fantasy Impact
In college fantasy football, Gordon stands out as an exceptional player to have on your team due to his consistent production and playmaking abilities. After leading the nation with 1,732 rushing yards last season the expectations may be high this season. He has already established himself as a reliable and explosive offensive weapon. In startups, he is one of, if not the, first off the board. If one already has him on their team then his value is among the highest in the Devy community. His combination of strength, power, and elusiveness allows him to consistently create big plays and impact any fantasy team. As a focal point of Oklahoma State’s offense, Gordon is poised to deliver numerous high-scoring performances, making him a true Devy Diamond for this upcoming season.
In NFL fantasy football, Gordon already projects to be a highly valuable player thanks to his well-rounded skill set and potential for immediate impact. His ability to break tackles, gain yards after contact, and contribute as a receiver makes him a dual-threat running back. These types of running backs are highly coveted in PPR (points per reception) formats. If drafted by a team like the Cincinnati Bengals, Gordon would benefit from playing in a high-powered offense with an elite quarterback. His opportunism would be maximized for touchdowns and big plays. Given his proven track record in college and potential for significant volume and production in the NFL, Gordon would be a wise investment for any fantasy football team.
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