In vitro production (IVP) of bovine embryos has become widespread technology implemented in cattle breeding and production. Here, we review novel data on cumulus/granulosa cell gene expression, as determined by RNAseq on cellular material from pooled follicular fluids at the single animal level, and relate these finding to previous data on oocyte developmental competence and ultrastructure. The cumulus/granulosa cell gene expression patterns indicate that early follicular atresia is associated with increased blastocyst yield and this hypothesis is supported by previous data on oocyte competence and ultrastructure.