| Year: | 1981 |
| Team: | Oklahoma State Cowboys |
| Sport: | football |
| Conference: | Big Eight Conference |
| Short Conf: | Big 8 |
| Record: | 7–5 |
| Conf Record: | 4–3 |
| Head Coach: | Jimmy Johnson |
| Hc Year: | 3rd |
| Stadium: | Lewis Field |
| Bowl: | Independence Bowl |
| Bowl Result: | L 16–33 vs. Texas A&M |
The 1981 Oklahoma State Cowboys football team represented Oklahoma State University in the Big Eight Conference during the 1981 NCAA Division I-A football season. In their third season under head coach Jimmy Johnson, the Cowboys compiled a 7–5 record (4–3 against conference opponents), tied for third place in the conference, and were outscored by opponents by a combined total of 216 to 197.[1] [2]
The team's statistical leaders included Shawn Jones with 788 rushing yards, John Doerner with 877 passing yards, John Chesley with 350 receiving yards, and placekicker Larry Roach with 71 points scored.[3] [4]
The team played its home games at Lewis Field in Stillwater, Oklahoma.[5]
The 1982 NFL draft was held on April 27–28, 1982. The following Cowboys were selected.[6]
| 11 | 301 | Ron Ingram | Philadelphia Eagles | ||
| 12 | 313 | Ricky Young | Chicago Bears |