QB Rudolph takes leadership reins for No. 21 Oklahoma State

STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) – Oklahoma State quarterback Mason Rudolph has the talent, the numbers and the wins.

Now, he has to step up as a leader.

The 6-foot-5 junior is coming off one of the best seasons in Oklahoma State history. His completions, attempts and passing yards per game last season trailed only Brandon Weeden's 2010 and 2011 seasons on the school's single-season lists. He posted those huge numbers, despite J.W. Walsh getting much of the action in the red zone and in short-yardage situations.

Walsh's presence loomed large last season. Instead of transferring when Rudolph was named the starter, Walsh stuck with the team, carved out a valuable niche and mentored Rudolph. With Walsh now a graduate assistant at TCU, Rudolph's biggest jump might need to go beyond the numbers.

The 21st-ranked Cowboys open the season Saturday against Southeastern Louisiana. By all indications, Rudolph has put in the work to win the team over.

Walsh passed for 13 touchdowns and ran for 13 last season, mostly in the red zone and on short yardage. Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy feels confident that Rudolph, a pro-style pocket passer, will be effective in those situations.