You’re staring at the screen, remote in hand, wondering what time is the Oklahoma State football game today. It’s a Sunday in mid-January. Usually, this is prime time for postseason chaos.
But here’s the cold, hard reality: There is no Oklahoma State football game today, January 18, 2026.
If you were hoping to see the Pokes under the lights at Boone Pickens Stadium, I’ve got some bad news. The 2025-2026 season for Cowboy football effectively wrapped up in late November. Following a tough 20-13 loss to Iowa State on November 29, the Cowboys didn't make the cut for the Big 12 Championship or the expanded College Football Playoff.
Honestly, it's a bit of a bummer. After a season that saw more downs than ups—finishing with a string of conference losses—the pads are tucked away in storage. But while the turf is quiet in Stillwater, the program itself is loud. Like, "Number one transfer portal class in the nation" loud.
Why There’s No Game Today (And What’s Actually Happening)
College football schedules are weird. If you aren't in the National Championship hunt—which, by the way, features Miami and Indiana this year on Monday, January 19—your season is basically over by New Year's Day.
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Oklahoma State didn't secure a bowl bid this cycle. That’s why you won’t find them on ESPN or Fox today. Instead of a kickoff, the coaching staff, led by Eric Morris, is deep in the "Roster Overhaul" phase.
If you are a die-hard OSU fan looking for live action right now, you’re looking at the wrong sport. Today, Sunday, January 18, the Cowgirl Basketball team is taking on Iowa State. That game tips off at 12:00 p.m. CT at Gallagher-Iba Arena. It’s being televised on FOX, so if you just need that orange-and-black fix, that’s your move.
The 2026 Transfer Portal Explosion
While the football team isn't playing, they are winning the offseason. It's kinda wild. Just a week ago, Oklahoma State jumped to the No. 1 spot in the transfer portal rankings.
They’ve pulled in 34 transfers. Think about that for a second. That is almost half a roster of new faces. Coach Eric Morris is clearly not interested in a slow rebuild. He brought a massive contingent from North Texas, including guys who already know his system inside and out.
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The headliner everyone is talking about is five-star Drew Mestemaker. But it's the depth that's actually impressive. They just added Morgan McPhaul, a veteran tight end from VMI, specifically to help with blocking. They also just got a recommitment from Maliek Bracy, a three-star corner who is supposed to be a cornerstone for the 2026 class.
What Time Is The Oklahoma State Football Game Today? Misconceptions Explained
A lot of people get confused this time of year because of the "2026" label. When you see "2026 Recruiting Class" or "2026 Schedule," it’s easy to think there’s a game happening in early 2026.
In reality, the 2026 football season won't start until late August. We’re currently in the dead zone. No spring ball yet. No summer camps. Just recruiting and strength training.
If you see a headline claiming a "Big Game Today" for Cowboy football on January 18, it's likely clickbait or referring to a different sport. Here is a quick look at what is actually on the OSU athletics calendar for today and tomorrow:
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- Sunday, Jan 18: Cowgirl Basketball vs. Iowa State (12:00 p.m. CT)
- Monday, Jan 19: Cowboy Tennis vs. Saint Louis (11:00 a.m. CT)
- Monday, Jan 19: Cowboy Tennis vs. Oral Roberts (5:00 p.m. CT)
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
Since you can't watch a game today, you're probably wondering when the actual "real" football returns. The 2026 schedule hasn't been fully finalized with kickoff times yet, but we know the opponents.
The Big 12 is a gauntlet now. With the conference expansion and the departure of some old rivals, the Saturday experience in Stillwater looks different. We do know that the focus for the 2026 season is redemption. After the 2025 season ended with a thud, the pressure on Eric Morris to turn that No. 1 portal class into wins is massive.
The internal chatter around Stillwater is that the offense is going to be significantly faster. Bringing in over 30 transfers isn't just a "tweak." It's a total reboot.
Actionable Next Steps for Fans
Since there’s no kickoff to catch today, here is how you can actually stay plugged into Oklahoma State football:
- Track the Portal: Keep an eye on the "Pistols Firing" blog or the official OSU athletics site. With the window still active, more names could drop any minute.
- Watch the Cowgirls: If you’re at home, flip to FOX at noon. They are 15-4 and playing high-level ball right now.
- Check the Spring Game Date: Usually, the first chance to see the "new" football team is in April. Those dates are typically announced in February.
- National Championship: If you just love college football, watch the Miami vs. Indiana game tomorrow night. It’ll give you a glimpse of the level the Pokes are trying to get back to.
Basically, keep the jersey in the closet for a few more months. The "game" today is happening in the recruitment offices, not on the field.