OSU Preview Wide Receiver

Originally Published: Aug 26, 2010 7:21 PM CDTAs part of the buildup to the season, I am previewing a different position for the Cowboys every day or so on my blog. When

Thursday, May 26th 2011, 1:25 pm

By: News On 6

Originally Published: Aug 26, 2010 7:21 PM CDT

As part of the buildup to the season, I am previewing a different position for the Cowboys every day or so on my blog. When Mike Gundy announced the hiring of Dana Holgorsen as offensive coordinator this past January, it had to seem like a late Christmas present for Cowboy wide receivers. Now, there was no shortage of passes to go around in OSUs old zone-read system, but Holgorsens offenses led the nation in passing offense in 2007 and 2009. And he has coached two stars wide receivers in Michael Crabtree and Wes Welker. Just imagine what Dez Bryant might do in this offense.  But the cupboard is not bare.  Both Gundy and Holgorsen have said they would like to have 8 receivers that they feel confident and comfortable with.  And as of their practice this past Tuesday, both said they feel as though they have about 6. The Cowboys leading returning receiver, Hubert Anyiam (42 receptions, 515 yards, 3 TDs), has been nursing a broken foot that he suffered in spring practice.  The Pokes need Anyiam healthy to provide an outside and downfield threat along with Justin Blackmon and Isiah Anderson who is one of the fastest Cowboys on the team. When you look at Josh Cooper you automatically think of Welker.  Theyre about the same size and have the same skill set.  Cooper could have a huge year at one of the inside receiver spots after suffering through an injury-riddled 2009.  Tracy Moore says he "got tired of being called the fat receiver" so he did something about it.  Moore is slimmed down to about 220 pounds, but his 6-2 frame will pose nightmares for opposing defenders over the middle.  Justin Horton will provide a tight end-like presence whos athleticism will also provide matchup problems inside.  And Bo Bowling has been reinstated to the team as a walkon.  He caught two touchdown passes in 2008, but was suspended for off-the-field matters in 2009.  His return provides depth. Beyond those guys, the Cowboys have some youngsters they hope will mature.  Michael Harrison caught a touchdown pass in OSUs second preseason scrimmage.  Colton Chelf has been steady. But lets not leave the running backs out of the wide receiver conversation.  Under Holgorsen last season, Houstons top 2 running backs combined to catch 102 passes. Kendall Hunter could catch 40 to 50 passes out of the backfield and be the Cowboys third or fourth leading receiver. The receiving corp may be without a superstar like Bryant, but Holgorsens system doesnt need one.  It needs guys who can get open and, catch the ball and make plays in space.  Next up:  Defensive Line