Josh Ford and Cam Smith share their expectations for the 2025 football season at Big 12 Media Days

Josh Ford and Cam Smith are embracing leadership roles and the program's changes, emphasizing team chemistry, strong culture, and a focused, game-by-game mindset heading into the 2025 season.

Wednesday, July 9th 2025, 9:27 pm

By: Jeremie Poplin


Josh Ford and Cam Smith spent the afternoon at Big 12 Media Days meeting with members of the media. John Holcomb had an opportunity to ask both about the upcoming football season.

Takeaways from Josh Ford's Interview with John Holcomb

Grateful for Leadership Role

Josh Ford views being a team spokesperson as a leadership opportunity he’s prayed for, emphasizing his faith and desire to give glory to God through football.

Year Two Growth and Confidence

After a freshman year of growth, Ford feels significantly more confident heading into year two, comparing his improved football IQ to advancing from Spanish 1 to Spanish 3 in understanding the playbook and defensive reads.

Quick Mental Reset After 2024

Ford said the team quickly shifted focus to 2025 once last season ended, crediting Coach Gundy for getting everyone locked in on the future.

One-Game-at-a-Time Mentality

The team’s expectations are simple but focused: take it one game at a time, starting with the season opener against UT Martin.

Physical Mindset at Tight End

Ford loves the physical nature of playing tight end, saying he enjoys delivering hits just as much as taking them—calling it his “passion and joy.”

Fast Chemistry with Quarterbacks

Despite the quarterback competition and influx of new players, Ford said spring ball helped the offense quickly build chemistry, and he praised both QBs for the qualities they bring to the team.


Top 5 Takeaways from Cam Smith’s Interview with John Holcomb


Positive Outlook on Change

Smith embraces the program’s overhaul, calling it a “change for the better” as the team unites around shared goals.

Leadership by Example

As a veteran, he’s set the tone this offseason through discipline, extra meetings, and consistent effort to push the team forward.

Fired Up by Coach Grantham

Smith loves new DC Todd Grantham’s energy, saying his fiery attitude energizes the entire defense.

Team Bonding a Priority

With a large group of newcomers, the staff has emphasized chemistry through off-field events like bowling and team meals.

No Hype, Just Focus

Smith isn’t concerned with preseason rankings—he’s focused on enjoying his final season and taking it one game at a time.

More from Big 12 Media Days...


Mike Gundy talks OSU roster overhaul, team chemistry, and Big 12 depth in Interview with John Holcomb


Gundy reacts to EA Sports likeness: 'They gave me a great hairdo—but that’s like permanent hair forever'


WATCH: Oklahoma State Head Coach Mike Gundy speaks at Big 12 Media Days


Jeremie Poplin

Jeremie Poplin has been a trusted and familiar voice in Tulsa sports media for nearly 25 years. Jeremie serves as a sports producer and digital sports liaison for News On 6 while entering his 12th season as the radio sideline reporter and analyst for Tulsa football on Golden Hurricane Sports Properties.

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