If last week's crushing last-second loss to Central Michigan left any lingering negative effects for Oklahoma State, it didn't show for Cowboys quarterback Mason Rudolph.

Rudolph came out firing Saturday against Pitt, throwing a 91-yard touchdown to James Washington on the very first offensive play from scrimmage. His arm stayed hot and he finished the first half with a whopping 372 passing yards and two touchdowns as the Cowboys posted 31 points in the opening two quarters.

That 372-yard mark had Rudolph on pace for 774 passing yards, while his top receiver in Washington was on pace for 462 receiving yards. The prolific combo both surpassed Cowboys records for a half. And in a close game with Pitt, Rudolph continued to be called on to drop back and pass.

The game was delayed by lightning early in the fourth quarter, but when play resumed Rudolph didn't lose his stride. Maybe he fell short of his original pace for more than 700 yards, but Rudolph finished the Cowboys' 45-38 win with 540 yards passing.

The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NCAA or its member institutions.