Oklahoma Sooners versus Oregon Ducks in the Valero Alamo Bowl

Life comes at you pretty fast, Sooner fans. The last month has been bananas. The Sooners lost to the Cowboys in Bedlam. Then Lincoln Riley bolts for USC. Doom and gloom sets in for a week before the triumphant return of Brent Venables buoys the hopes and dreams of Sooner Nation yet again. We had a season with championship aspirations and a Heisman Trophy quarterback and now we've got the Alamo Bowl, Spencer Rattler gone and Bob Stoops coaching the game.

There have been decommitments,  transfers and opt outs. Rattler, predictably, is gone. Austin Stogner went with him to Shane Beamer and South Carolina and Jaden Haselwood left for Arkansas. Perrion Winfrey, Isaiah Thomas and Nik Bonitto are notables on defense who have opted out of the bowl game. These are major blows but much has been salvaged. Theo Wease (he of 0 catches all season) entered the portal but decided to stay, there have been a couple of transfers from the portal on their way in and the recruiting class is still top 10 for whatever that is worth.

Most importantly, Caleb Williams thus far has stayed. I think if he was leaving he would have done so already. But besides going to USC to follow Riley, where else could his situation be improved? Kennedy Brooks, Marvin Mims and Mario Williams have also decided, thus far, to stay. I wouldn't be surprised if Brooks opts for the NFL after the bowl game, however. 

I think they've been convinced to stay by Jeff Lebby who, statistically, has had a top five offense nationally the last three years at Ole Miss. The Sooners offense, by contrast, has been around 40 the last three years. I didn't realize this until I obsessively started following the coaching search.

All of which has me looking at the program in a new light. First, it's possible OU just got better all around. Anybody would say Brent Venables is an upgrade from Alex Grinch and statistically the offense has room for improvement. Second, it's possible that the legend of Lincoln Riley is just that. It will be very interesting to watch the development of his former players compared to his new guys over the next three years. Third, there now seems to be a very intense focus on player development and for OU to become known as a conduit to the next level. 

Oregon, if you can believe it, finds themselves in a similar if not worse situation. They also lost their coach and due to transfers and opt-outs are missing something like thirty players for the bowl game. With expectations now through the floor and nothing on the line, this one looks like it could be a pretty fun one to watch.

OFFENSE

It's Cale Gundy calling plays and one wonders if this means everything will be simplified or if new OC Jeff Lebby has been doing any work trying to install some of his offense to try out. My guess is there will be a let 'er rip approach but with a heavy lean on the run game. By that I mean I don't think the run will be abandoned the way Lincoln sometimes would and I also expect there won't be a lot of playing for field position or punting. I bet the Sooners go for it on 4th at least three times, not including some late game obvious 4 down situation. 

I'll go with CW for my OPOG because I think he'll have quite a few designed runs for him. I wouldn't call it a coronation per se, but I think this will be a showcase game for him. 

DEFENSE

This is where things get real interesting. Nearly the entire D-line has opted out. You have a handful of coaches sticking around before heading off to new jobs and you've got Bob Stoops and Venables around but, in the case of Venables, not technically part of the staff. 

I think this lends itself to a hair on fire approach where a lot of new faces get a lot of snaps to audition for parts in next years D. Things could get extremely ugly but with Oregon being so shorthanded maybe the Sooners catch some breaks. 

Defense seems harder to adjust in a short time frame and I'll be interested to see if there's as much pre-snap movement or if new concepts are being installed. I will be shocked, in a bad way, if the D does not come out highly motivated and flying to the football. Those that are here and intend to be on campus next year should be very keen to be on Venables radar as soon as possible.

For my DPOG I'll go with Danny Stutsman who impressed me all season and who absolutely should be on the short list for players to make a big jump next year in the new Venables defense.

THE SCORE

Surprise, surprise I think the Sooners win this one going away. The line is Sooners -7 and I'd be jumping all over that if I were a betting man. There is no reason to think the Sooners offense can't be potent, especially with one of the best defensive players in the country opting out for Oregon. 

And don't forget this game is a meaningless exhibition, which is when Oklahoma teams really shine. All this points to good times and one last ice bucket bath for Coach Bobby.

Sooners 42, Ducks 17

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner

Bedlam

It's Bedlam, bitches, and it's always more fun when it means something. Usually that something is Little Brother trying to wreck Sooner hopes and dreams. It is true that a Sooner loss would essentially end the season. However, Cowboy tears will be shed if their inexplicable bubble gets burst. It's win or go home today.

I'm not feeling all that confident about the Sooners chances. The Cowboys defense is legit and even if it were only passable that would give them an edge over what the Sooners have been trotting out more often than not. And, as mentioned, the Cowboys are playing for a title game berth and a shot at the playoff. It's in Stillwater at night. 

But let us not forgot who has been here before. In a dogfight you have to like the Sooners chances. God knows they can win close and ugly. You know the Cowboys could come out with either their nuts in their throats or overconfident. The Sooners are made for this. 

OFFENSE

I would love (though not enough to actually follow through looking for it) to watch the tape of some of these plays where Caleb Williams is going deep or hanging on to the ball forever just to see if there are any open underneath routes. I have to believe he's not going through progressions or something. There has to be something easier than what it seems like he is always trying to do. 

He needs to get settled down early. He needs to run early. I wouldn't be surprised to see some razzle dazzle to see if the Cowboys over run. 

CW needs to be the OPOG here but I'm picking Mario Williams. He's on the cusp of some big stuff.

DEFENSE

For all the shit talk on these guys they did play a nice game last week. It certainly seems like the infusion of Jalen Redmond is a big reason. Obviously, for the Sooners to have any chance they have to play their best ball today. 

This Cowboy offense is not exactly dynamic. They are certainly capable of mediocrity. If Redmond, Isaiah Thomas and Perrion Winfrey can get some pressure then the Sooners will get some breaks you can count on it. 

Conversely, this defense can also make the worst offenses seem dynamic. If they can't get off the field on third and medium plus I will be calling it an early night and sitting in the dark feeling sorry for myself like a little bitch.

My crimson colored glasses don't allow me to see this happening, though, and so I'm going to pick Jalen Redmond for my DPOG.

THE SCORE

The Sooners will show up on D. CW will use his brain and his feet. The Cowboy faithful will water their miserable little patch of prairie with warm coed tears.

The first team to 24 will win. Tonight it's the good guys. The Sooners win and make a pretty big statement, 31-17.

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner

OSU

 What familiar waters we find ourselves in this week. Trying to win, making a case, watching scoreboards etc. It’s as consistent as the leaves changing. The Sooners are once again on the outside looking in and while of course I want them to get to the conference championship, win the big 12 and eke their way into the playoffs, frankly they don’t belong there. The committee is nothing if not flawed, but they got it right keeping OU low. The offense has looked uncharacteristically bad, vanilla even. And the defense is, well, the same. I remarked to a friend last week, during a moment when it certainly looked like the Sooners were going to piss it away to Iowa State,  this has been an exceedingly difficult Sooners team to like. They do so many things shittily. So with that dose of sunshine, on to the picks. 

Offense

The Sooners have struggled mightily here, switching QBs, trying trick plays and still barely scoring any points. It is a thankfully unusual circumstance for one of Riley’s teams. And at this point he gets the benefit of the doubt that it’s an outlier. However, one things had been remarkably consistent, Kennedy Brooks. Dude is as good as they come with that rare blend of power, speed and vision. I am going with him again today. My only question: why are we only getting him 10-15 touches a game?

Defense

Christ they are bad. Horrid tackling, guys out of position, can’t get stops on third and fourth down…and round and round spins the broken record. 

Score

The Sooners go into this one as four point dogs on the road. I believe (though am too lazy to confirm) that this is the first game this year where they haven’t been favored. Nothing else has gotten their attention so far, I’m stupidly hopefully that this will. Sooners do just enough 31-30. 

Boomer to the Motherfuckin’ Sooner 

Iowa State

Well, it wouldn't be a fall in Norman if the football Sooners didn't lose a stupid game they shouldn't have. I can't think of a team in recent memory more frustrating than this one. Their ability to play to the level of their opponents is absolutely unparalleled. Frankly, they were lucky to get to 9-0 before they lost one. Tulane should've beaten them week 1. It's been a maddening year, and one where the Sooners don't belong amongst the nations elite teams. 

Offense

I'll say Marvin Mims. My fire for the season took on a lot of water last week and I'm just having a hard time getting pumped up for this one. I hope the offense gets back on track and a good start would be getting the ball in the hands of a playmaker like Mims.

Defense

I'm a believer that coaches need time and a certain amount of leeway in order to get players that fit their systems, to establish their identity as coaches and to implement the strategies that comprise winning football. So I'm not saying Alex Grinch needs to go yet, but that leeway is being consumed at a prodigious rate. 

Score

Iowa State always plays OU very well. They just saw Baylor completely control both sides of the ball. I hope the Sooners might have gotten a wake up call however and can do enough to win today. I think they do, 24-21.

Boomer to the Motherfuckin Sooner

Oklahoma Sooners versus Iowa State Cyclones

 The Sooners luck ran out last week in Waco as the defense's inability to get off the field cost them dearly. I turned it off when the Bears rattled off a 15 yard run on a 3rd and 12. My crimson colored glasses had me believing that so many close games and comebacks portended a story book season where all the breaks go your way. All this time it was just dumb luck.

Anyway, speaking of disappointments, the Iowa State Cyclones come to Norman today. They no doubt saw the film last week and have some ideas on how to further ruin the Sooners hopes and dreams since they have nothing else to play for at this point. 

OFFENSE

Last week the Sooners just couldn't get into any rhythm. Caleb Williams kept looking to go deep and the running game was inconsistent.

This week there has to be some semblance of a plan to get easy throws to the middle of the field. There just have to be opportunities less than 15 yards down the field. There are too many good receivers for CW to have all day and only be looking for bombs. 

I guess I'll go CW today for OPOG although for the first time in ages it's hard to know where a spark will come from on offense.

DEFENSE

Fuck these guys. I'm so tired of watching them be in a position to stop or slow down someone at the line of scrimmage only to whiff and give up chunks of yards. Seriously, at the point of attack all a defender has to do is slow down the ball carrier and wait for help to arrive. Just wait for the cavalry. But no. It's painful to watch.

THE SCORE

I mean I think the Sooners can win but it's going to be another butt clincher. I'm going Sooners 20, Cyclones 17.

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner

Baylor

 Since we last got together for a Sooners game the playoff rankings have been released. Many years ago in my younger and more naive days, the Sooners poor ranking would've given me much angst and vitriol to spew about fairness and blah blah blah. My nephew and I had a conversation that afforded me the new, and strange, role of talking him down as he had the same angst and vitriol I just mentioned. But years of watching, and being let down, have given me perspective and perhaps a whiff of insight. As I told him, none of it matters unless the Sooners win the rest of their games. One loss at this point, and we're pretty much done for the playoff anyway, regardless of our initial ranking. Like it or not, unlike Alabama for example, OU has done nothing to earn the benefit of the doubt. And, if the Sooners do win out (massive "if" given what we've seen from the defense), things will take care of themselves and everything we dream of each season will still be on the table. But, none of it matters if OU rolls into Waco today and loses a tough, conference road game. Which, I fear, is a very real possibility. 

Offense

Caleb Williams has ignited a Sooner fanbase unlike any player I can quickly think of since the likes of Adrian Peterson. Not since AD has any player, let alone another true freshman, been so obviously better than most (if not all) of the players on the field. He's so fun to watch because in addition to all the obvious athleticism and talent, he really seems to be a smart player inherently. Converse to the defense it's nice to watch someone not fuck things up regularly. This is a tough road game against a very good team. And while the Sooners don't win without a great game from CW, the run game is essential to controlling the ball and keeping our abysmal defense off of the field. As such, I like Kennedy Brooks in this one. He has decidedly been out of the limelight since CW took over, but he's still a complete badass. I like Lincoln to lean on him today, and he delivers.

Defense

If you just picked up the newspaper and read the box score, it would look like the Sooner defense played a pretty solid game (by their woefully low standards) against Tech. But it was still the same story of guys out of position, missed tackles, and generally shitty play. And as I threatened before that game I refuse to pick anyone on that side of the ball until they start playing respectably. 

Score

OU is 5 point road favorites, Baylor is a solid team with nothing to lose. This is a recipe for a bed shitting. I'm predictably nervous, and a loss wouldn't surprise me. From here on out the schedule is a real rectum tester. But, one game at a time. I think OU does enough to escape Waco with a win and remain unbeaten. Sooners win it, 27-24. 

Boomer to the Motherfuckin' Sooner 

Oklahoma Sooners versus Texas Tech Red Raiders

 Good afternoon Sooner fans it's a glorious day in Oklahoma. A fine afternoon for a football game. Today our 8-0 Oklahoma Sooners take on the Red Raiders in what on most days might be considered a trap game. Fortunately or no, the Sooners had their trap game last week against Kansas. It was a butt puckering affair that required Caleb Williams to invent a new football play on a 4th down conversion to pull the Sooner asses out of the proverbial fire. 

It's hard to polish a turd that wet but I'm here for it. It's good the Sooners got tested and who cares what it did to them in the rankings. They are still in the drivers seat. Now they have a home game against a team with a brand new coach, then a bye, then they run the gauntlet. It's all out there for the taking. If you break the season up into parts this might be the third act. The Sooners have two weeks to start playing their best ball and then it's six games to glory.

Let's get it going today.

OFFENSE

It's Caleb Williams world and we're just living in it. If I can pick some knits I'd like to see him distribute the ball a little more but it's tough to argue his going to where he's comfortable early and often to Jaden Haselwood. Frankly, he could probably run a smidge more too although the threat of his running is probably enough to keep linebackers in place. 

Today I look for lots of short passes with big plays by receivers. I like Haselwood to have another big day.

DEFENSE

Good Lord, these guys. They have to get their shit together and today everything is set up on a platter for them. They have the home crowd, a terrible team, a new coach and they should have a Quasimodo sized chip on their shoulder. 

So help me if they can't get off the field. They all need to answer the bell. It's exasperating as hell. I'm not picking anyone this week although I like the spirit that Key Lawrence plays with. 

THE SCORE

This damn well better be a total ass beat. If the Sooners can't come out crisp and fired up on both sides of the ball then you really will have to doubt this is the year and this is the team. I'm serious. Today is a fresh start and lots of people have something to prove a play for. 

I'm going Sooners 28, Red Raiders 7 and it better not be that close.

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner

Tech

Last Saturday, in the midst of a complete abortion of a first half against KU, I remarked to a friend that this Sooners team is incredibly hard root for. I love 8-0, but man has it been a headache getting there. Tulane is 1-6, KU is 1-6 and the rest are slew of mediocre teams. What do they all have in common? They've all pushed the Sooners to a 4 quarter effort and narrowly lost. Aside from Western Carolina, OU has been absolutely mediocre in doing just enough to win each game, but not nearly enough to put anyone away until the final whistle. It's brutal. If it continues, the chances of OU lucking out close win after close win to run the table are almost nil. The schedule gets tougher going forward, and by that I mean they're playing teams with winning records, starting today with Texas Tech. Who, while in disarray, still must be salivating at the opportunity to play against the tire fire that is the OU defense. 

Offense

The road to greatest freshman QB in OU history took a slight turn last Saturday with Williams looking decidedly average in a first half in which the Sooners failed to score. No one was calling for Spencer Rattler, nor should they be, but with the defense OU has, there aren't many teams that they can afford to lay an egg for a half against. While I love CW still (that strip of Brooks for a first down will go down as the stuff of legend in OU history), I think the key to this offense is getting Kennedy Brooks rolling early. I like the Sooners to regroup and pound the ball on the ground today. Brooks is my OPG.

Defense

Aside from the Western Carolina game, this defense has positively elite at allowing other teams to stay on the field and in turn, in games. Last year felt like steady progress throughout the season up to the last game where OU had, dare I say, a competent D. Unfortunately the Sooners don't really seem to be getting any better. The things they are bad at warrant an entire book, so forget about trying to do it in one paragraph. Alas, I will try to remain optimistic, but we are nearing the point where I stop picking anyone. I'm going to pick Isaiah Thomas today in hopes that he makes life miserable for the new starting QB for Tech.

Score

Tech comes in amid some turmoil. It's Sonny Cumbie's first game as HC and he has a new QB under center (I think, I'm too lazy to check). This should be a ripe opportunity for the OU D to "get right". But if there is anything I'm sure of, it's that they will not be able to get off of the field on 3rd down and this one will be (sigh) much closer than it should be. The Sooners are favored by 19, I don't think they cover, but they keep the win train rolling. Sooners win 38-30.

Boomer to the Motherfuckin Sooner

Kansas

Going in to last Saturday I felt there was little question that Caleb Williams would be starting. It was the worst kept secret in Norman when Lincoln Riley attempted something akin to a poker face when he decided not to announce his starter. But after the polarized performances in the Red River, how could anyone in their right mind not continue with Williams? Still, I had some fear (as I always do) that when the pressure and time to think that comes with knowing you will be "the guy" set in on CW that he might not look the part as he did when expectations were zero. Suffice to say, that fear was quelled in the most delightful way with a dominant performance where TD passes (four) nearly matched the number of incompletions (five). I was discussing with a friend last night, and both of us were marveling at how much better Williams decision making is with so much less time in the system. Dude is unbelievable. It's nice to have KU now as a less nerve-wracking game to hopefully clean up the defense going into the rest of the season.

Offense

I was hesitant to pick CW last week. Partly because of what I mentioned earlier, but also because I'm a moron and was afraid of a jinx. I'm not going to be "smart" this week and think too much. It's Williams for me today. I think he goes inside, outside, over and around an overmatched KU squad. It should be a lot of fun.

Defense

It's a real accomplishment that what the defense did last week could be framed as an improvement. Volumes are spoken by the fact that a couple of three and outs and a fourth down stop qualify as a successful outing by a team that gave up 31 points to a decidedly mediocre TCU team. But, I'll take victories where they come. Let's all hope that this is a stepping stone and KU presents another one. If the defense can continue to improve (and it will have to in order to reach the playoff) this team could be very fun before it's over. DPG? I don't really know honestly. I'll guess Perrion Winfrey for no particular reason. 

Score

The line is 38.5 for the Sooners today. That's a shitload of points and I have to think if Rattler were starting that's at least 10 points lower. I like the Sooners big, but KU to cover. OU wins it 45-7 on a day that the defense looks just a little better than last week. Let's keep it rolling. 

Boomer to the Motherfuckin' Sooner

Oklahoma Sooners versus Kansas Jayhawks

 Well, Sooner fans, are you not entertained? Caleb Williams looks like the cross pollination of Jalen Hurts and Kyler Murray. I asked my dad if CW should start against Kansas and, after some discussion, he said, "No wonder Spencer was off. He had to be looking over his shoulder."

Kirk Herbstreit was asking for Wet Naps on national television and it was not because he finished his nachos. No, Caleb Williams is that good.

Talk of Spencer Rattler transferring is click bait idiocy though. Spencer Rattler would be a fool to do anything other than put on a headset and absorb as much as possible the remainder of the year. First, he's one play away from coming back in and a championship is at stake. Second, leaving town double post haste because you got outplayed at your spot is unbecoming of a top draft pick. And he's still young. The 2nd best QB at OU last year is leading the nation in passing TD's this year at SMU. He should ask Jalen Hurts how sticking around for a season and then weighing options worked out. 

On to hapless Kansas. There are a few things that have to happen this week. First, everyone stay healthy. Second, Get Caleb Williams somehow more comfortable. Third, continue to let the defense settle in now that the cavalry has arrived. 

OFFENSE

I'm not Adam Schefter but I've watched my fair share of good quarterbacks over the years and what we witnessed in Caleb Williams last week was one of the best QB performances I've ever seen. I've never seen an OU QB look like he's playing chess versus checkers the way I saw. Not a single throw was into double coverage. Almost every incompletion was a dropped touchdown or a pass interference that prevented a touchdown. 

Fuckin-A CW is my OPOG until he decides someone else should carry them. 

DEFENSE

TCU made some plays and the OU offense was brilliant but there's yet more work to do over here. Maybe Woodi Washington and Pat Field and Delarrin Turner-Yell being out make a drastic difference. This week offers a chance to reset the calculus a little bit. Kansas is good at nothing and needs to  remain so. 

The Sooners need to stay healthy and build some depth. Guys like Key Lawrence and Latrell McCutchen need to step up. 

I'm stumped who to pick here. I surveyed the roster and the name Reggie Grimes sticks out. I'm a regular Nostradamus.

THE SCORE

Kansas is a fucking weird place and I hope that means some goofy penalties and maybe a 5th down. I don't want to see injuries or God forbid a struggle. The Sooners TCB bigly.

OU 56 Kansas 10

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner

Oklahoma Sooners versus Texas Christian Horned Frogs

How about that 21 point come from behind victory against the reviled Longhorns, Sooner fans? And how about that Caleb Williams? Should he start? 

• The Sooners had 500 yards and scored every time he touched the ball when he was in the game.
• The Sooners are trying to win games not please parents.
• What message does it send to the rest of the team if you start Spencer Rattler?
• Rattler was benched for his play, not for an injury.

In short, I'll be shocked if Williams doesn't start. He earned the time the same as any other position. The Sooners are at home and prohibitive favorites. If he's ineffective you bench him. For now, today, he has beat out Rattler. I would be stunned if he doesn't get the call. The offense has not been firing under all cylinders with Rattler thus far. We got a taste with Caleb Williams. Sooner Nation is dying to see how the Cadillac drives. 

OFFENSE

I would love to pick Kennedy Brooks for my OPOG today but loyal readers already know where this column is headed. Brooks has landed on my just announced All Underrated  Running Back Team. He joins Demarco Murray and Samaje Perine in this century and Greg Pruitt from last. Brooks performance against Texas was so strong and he continues to get no love.

Appropriately, we're riding the Caleb Williams train today. The guy has an extra level and electricity that comes through the television. When he trots on the field today the crowd is going to lose their shit. This dude has it.

He's my OPOG and it's job until he loses it. I love how he stuck in the pocket, commanded the offense and made confident throws. He's got this.

DEFENSE

As per usual I have no idea what TCU brings on offense. I'm guessing an average QB who will play solid but throw at least one really dumb INT. They'll have a running back who is solid between the tackles but won't get to 100. I bet they have one really good wide receiver who will expose Jaden Davis or Latrell McCutchen. 

Today I expect a defense that has consistently done "just enough to win" to be their usual selves but they'll shine because the Sooner offense will look more like its expected self. 

For my DPOG I'm going Shane Whitter. He caught my eye last week. Maybe I should rename this award to the Hot Hand on D because that's how I roll. 

THE SCORE

I like the Sooners big on what otherwise might be a letdown alert for a few reasons. First, Caleb Williams starting. Second, homecoming. Third, at night. Iowa is losing at home as I write this. Anything can happen any week. But with factors in play that give the Sooners an extra edge there is no letdown today.

Sooners big. OU 49, Horned Frogs 17.

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner.

TCU

The fighting Gary Pattersons make their way up to Norman today for a showdown with our beloved Oklahoma Sooners. The Sooners come in to this one fresh off of the most improbable victory that I can remember. A victory that prompted me to ride a bipolar roller coaster of emotions that included turning the game off after the first quarter, taking the OU flag down off of my house and then fielding a (very rare) phone call from my nephew imploring me to turn the game back on and finally me witnessing the bliss of Kennedy Brooks putting a stamp on the epic comeback.  It was Sooner Magic in vintage form and I can't get enough. Oh and Caleb Williams appears to be the anti-Rattler. That is to say, stepping up in the face of pressure and taking over the game. It was a beautiful thing to watch and I can't imagine that we go back to Rattler at this point. TCU is always a tough game, and there is strong letdown potential after last week. I think the Sooners are in for another close game.

Offense

I'm so excited for the Caleb Williams era. Dude was an absolute monster last week coming off of the bench. But, what a precipitous fall for Spencer Rattler! Basically he was the consensus favorite for the Heisman and presumptive first overall draft pick in next year's draft. Now? Presumably benched for a true freshman wunderkind. I can't think of a precedent for this, and if there is, they are few and far between. I hope Caleb Williams is lead-pipe-lock for OPG for the remainder of his Sooners career. But, I think this game is close and I think the Sooners lean on Kennedy Brooks again this week. He's my OPG with another huge effort.

Defense

As fun as the game was last week, the Sooner D looked pretty shitty last week. That said Nik Bonitto was again big in the Red River Shootout. I think he's the guy again today as it's becoming painfully, sadly, difficult to come up with other options.

Score

The Sooners are favored by 13.5 in this one. Coming off of last weeks miracle and coupled with an always sound TCU squad, I can't see the Sooners covering. I think the D looks shaky again and TCU keeps it close. But, I think the Sooners find a way yet again and win this at home 31-27.

Boomer to the Motherfuckin' Sooner

Oklahoma Sooners versus texas Longhorns

Fuck texas

The 5-0, still undefeated Oklahoma Sooners take on the abysmal and off-putting texas Longhorns in the Red River Showdown today at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas Texas. The Sooners are the ugliest 5-0 team in recent memory. But they find ways to win and must do so again today against a texas squad who, if nothing else, will attempt to run the ball down the Sooners throats all day.

OFFENSE

Spencer Rattler showed flashes of brilliance last week against K-State by putting up some gaudy completion numbers. If the offensive line can hold up today I look for him to be solid yet again. By solid I mean #52 redshirt senior Tyrese Robinson needs to pull his head out of his ass. He more or less had a penalty flag stuck in his ass crack all last week.

If the line can hold then perhaps the Sooners can establish a running game. Pundits seem to think this is the missing link to the Sooners being dynamic on offense. 

In this game I always like to pick someone lesser known to step up. Today I'm going with Brayden Willis. He was targeted a few times last week and is a big target that makes for a good safety blanket. 

But the key today is that line and their ability to be aggressive and not commit dumb penalties.

DEFENSE

The texas quarterback seems to be shaky as hell. That's good news. The bad is that shakiness is overcome by brick shithouse running back Bijan Robinson. Obviously the Sooners need to stop him first, second and third. This will stress the db's because you know the Longhorns will try to go over the top.

The Sooners will have to get an INT or two to assure victory methinks. 

Also, the Sooners need to be better at getting off the field. Last week was a mess in the respect. It reminded me of a youth baseball pitcher who perpetually gets to a 3-2 count only to walk the batter. The Sooners need to be better at the point of attack and it will difficult to win that battle against Robinson today if the initial tackler can't at least slow him down while others come to help.

Today I'll go with Nik Bonitto simply because on this side of the ball I have to go with our best on a big day. 

THE SCORE

This is one of the few games you don't have to worry about the Sooners being as excited to play as the other team. If they bring that expected intensity and focus to this one it should be a long day for the Horns. They just have more holes on both sides of the ball than do the Sooners. But the Sooners have shown they can play down to any level necessary to make for a close game. 

I pray that Tyrese Robinson has been removed from the line and that Spencer Rattler enjoys the throwing lanes he had last week. That will be the difference.

Sooners 31 Texas 24

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner

texas

 We are back for another edition of the Red River Rivalry, and back with full attendance this year. Which, should result in a pretty raucous crowd I would think. OU has been very consistent this season in that they've been underwhelming. Seemingly, they're content to keep every game within one score. If that trend holds true, I think today will be a loss. This is always a tough, throw-the-records out rivalry contest and I think the edge goes to the underdog for that reason. OU needs to combine a good day on offense and a good day on defense for the first time this year. If they can't get it together in this one, then they truly have no business being ranked in the top 10. 

Offense

My inclination is to go with Kennedy Brooks here. Dude is an absolute monster and he's been the most consistent guy on an otherwise woefully inconsistent team. Spencer Rattler is the antithesis of consistent. He makes so many dumb dick throws that I never really feel comfortable with him. Let's not forget he got benched in this one last year. It was clearly a turning point in his season, but unfortunately that solid play has not carried over. I think he makes some dumb plays today, and I can't pick him for that reason. However, I think he does get the ball to Marvin Mims often today, and I think Mims makes the most of it. I like MM for my OPG. 

Defense

Mirroring the team as a whole, the defense has been all over the place. At times, looking very tough, and then looking like a collective piece of wet toilet paper. In turn, the guys stepping up has been varied as well. For the first time in a long time there are actually a few guys to like on this defense, 11th year senior Pat Fields not withstanding. I'm going with the guy that has really stepped up in this game previously, Nik Bonitto. 

Score

I can't see this being a blowout. While texas has a loss, they're always highly talented and that doesn't really even matter in this one, it's nearly always close. I have a predictable bad feeling today, but I'm going with my hope of hopes. I think the Sooners do just enough to win, but not cover (OU -3.5). Sooners eke it out again, 21-20.

Boomer to the Motherfuckin Sooner

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Kansas State Wildcats

 Happy college football Saturday, friends. The Sooners are taking on Kansas State in Manhattan and, oh boy, am I puckered up for it. The Sooners are 4-0 and have done quite literally just enough to win the last two weeks. Now they find themselves playing on the road for the first time against an always game Wildcat squad. In sports, the past is not always prologue but today we've got what look to be two fairly matched teams, especially on defense. It will come down to who is toughest. The Sooners have proven to be tough enough so far. Can they do it again today?

OFFENSE

Well, Spencer Rattler has taken much heat both in this space and from his own home fanbase. It turns out that maybe the offensive line is a little shitty. The Sooners inability to run the ball is costing them dearly. Today we need to find out if the offensive line can improve and if Lincoln Riley can draw something up to carve out some semblance of a run threat. I still cannot for the life of me understand why Kennedy Brooks is not getting more touches. My peanut sized football mind can't figure it out.

All this talk about the line and the run game and yet what the Sooners will especially need today are some big plays which have also been notably absent. Marvin Mims needs to bust out and apparently he has been moved back into more of a slot position. Jaden Haselwood has been good too. But where is the space and separation? Where are the easy throws. I am, again, much vexed.

For my OPOG I guess I'll go with Michael Woods II. He gets a lot of targets and seems to make the most of them. I can't believe I'm guessing on offense but here we are. 

DEFENSE

A quick look at Kansas State statistically would indicate that they like to run the ball a lot and might use multiple QB's. Once again, holding the opponent to 21 should be enough and would be beyond enough in recent years. 

The Sooners need more than that today. Again, no big plays. This Deuce Vaughn (RB, KState) needs to graduate because he's a major pain in the ass. If the Sooners can shut him down maybe they can get a pick or two on some obvious passing downs.

For my DPOG today I'm taking a page of Nate's playbook and going Delarrin Turner-Yell. He was all over the field last week and hopefully can wreak some havoc this week.

THE SCORE

Oh baby I'm nervous. I just don't see the offense busting out so the defense just needs to keep things close and count on Rattler et al to gut it out. Thankfully we have the nations best field goal kicker who is liable to get 4 scores today. That still may not be enough.

Sooners 27, Wildcats 21

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner.

West Virginia

So far the Sooners have played three games, and so far they've managed to win all three. But aside from the western carolina cupcakes, it's been pretty consistently ugly. Nevertheless, no one looks at how much you win by, as long as you win. Let's hope the Sooners can manage to continue that trend today. Mostly, OU has been a pretty frustrating team to watch. They still give up way too much on third and fourth down and, uncharacteristically, they've struggled on offense. Spencer Rattler has been, umm, inconsistent. He makes way too many stupid decisions that either stall the offense or, worse, lead to turnovers. With the running attack OU has, the passing game should be pretty open. Yet Nebraska sat back in a soft pass defense all day and OU never really took advantage. West Virginia comes in today with a much better defense than Nebraska had, expect more of the same until OU proves they have an answer for it. 

Offense

Coming off of the worst scoring total in five years, OU has a lot to accomplish today. They need to prove that was an aberration and they need to prove that they can score regardless of the defense in front of them. West Virginia has one of the best defenses in the country, it will be tough sledding. My instinct is just to trust that Kennedy Brooks will do his thing and roll up big yards and a couple of TDs. Instead I'm going to outsmart myself and go with Jadon Haselwood. He's starting to show some chemistry with Rattler and I think today is the day he breaks out.

Defense

This is one of the stranger OU defenses I've seen. They looked like disinterested steaming turds against Tulane, they shut out Western Carolina and last week they gave up so many third downs yet held Nebraska to 16 points. I prefer "bend but don't break" to bend and break. But, how about we give neither bending nor breaking a try for a change. I'd love to be well acquainted with the Mountaineer punter before this is over. I'm going to mix it up a little and go with Delarrin Turner-Yell. He's not afraid to come up and tattoo a ball carrier and he's always around the play. I think he gets a pick today and leads the D.

Score

OU is somehow favored by 17.5. WVU just beat 15th ranked VaTech and boasts an experienced QB, a very good RB and that stout defense. This will be a big test for OU. I don't think they cover, and I don't think it's pretty, but 4-0 sounds awfully nice. OU ekes it out 31-30 with a late score.

Boomer to the Motherfuckin' Sooner

Oklahoma Sooners versus West Virginia Mountaineers

Last week against Nebraska the defense proved its mettle and it was the offense that had fans pacing the floor. I'm pretty sure it was a top 3 prediction failure for yours truly. I predicted the Sooners would put up 63 and watched as Nebraska played a ball control game while Spencer Rattler looked like he was playing a playground game (in the poor decision making, fuck around sort of way. It was near worst case scenario as the Huskers played way above the heads while, fortunately from the Sooners, making more self inflicting errors than the Sooners).  The Sooners scored 23 and won 23-16.

 West Virginny comes to Norman today to take on the undefeated Sooners. The Mountaineers are fresh off an upset of Virginia Tech. Nebraska wound up being a good test. The Mountaineers absolutely are.

OFFENSE

It's hard to explain Spencer Rattler but it's almost as if his decision making is based off what throw he wants to make instead of just making the right throw on a given play. As if taking what is given to him is too boring. He needs to do everything with flair.

Pretending this to actually be the case, he needs to learn that by playing the system that he will drastically improve his value as a quarterback by taking the throws that are there as often as possible rather than constantly trying to do something gaudy. Hopefully there is enough on film at this point to be able to point out these obvious easier throws. He needs to bore the hell out of himself and make some smart throws today. I mean, I bet he could put a scare in the 80% completion percentage mark if he'd participate in my plan. He should be able to make easy throws that make the offense look like a 7 on 7 drill.

He's my OPOG because I really do want to see him show a command of the offense. 

DEFENSE

Statistically, this defense is everything we could hope for. There are areas that they can improve, sure, like tackling, but defenders (even and especially Pat Fields) seem to be in the right place to make a play more often than not. It could be that I'm high but I don't recall a completely busted defensive play to  date that resulted in a long touchdown. 

West Virginny seems to rely a lot on their run game. The Sooners have been very good at stopping the run. That's the difference today and so I'm going Perrion Winfrey for my DPOG. He's a beast and can ruin some running plans for sure if he balls out. Fumbles seem to be our jam, too, so let's have a portion or three of that. 

Also, I think there are a few guys who were banged up last week who will be back this week. Billy Bowman chief among them. That will help.

THE SCORE

This matchup is probably second on my list of Big 12 games that I'll miss when the Sooners move to the SEC. The states of Oklahoma and West Virginia are constantly battling for rating 49th or 50th (or 1st or 2nd) depending on the  statistic. There are few states we can say, "At least we don't live there" so I think there's some pride on the line in this one. 

Today, the Sooners get back above 40 on offense and the defense plays well enough to carry it under the lights, in PRIMETIME. I'm going Sooners 42, Mountaineers 24.

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner

Nebraska

The Sooners welcome back an old rival today in the Nebraska Cornhuskers. This once storied, hard fought rival has all but withered and died since Nebraska left the Big 12 for the Big 10. Similarly, both teams have went on different trajectories since that time as well. Nebraska has faltered and fallen into steady mediocrity, never really contending for the National Title, nor the Big 10. OU has been nothing short of dominant in the Big 12, and while the National Title has proved elusive, they've made to the playoff multiple times as one of the top 4 teams in the country.  Scott Frost, an old OU nemesis as a player, leads the Huskers into Norman today as solid underdogs, in search of big road win and upset. 

I'm still not sure what OU is. They looked disinterested and underwhelming (as I mentioned last week) in barely beating an overmatched Tulane squad. Then last week absolutely lambasted Western Carolina by 76, covering the spread and then some. In other words, exactly what was expected. Today will certainly be more of a barometer than last week, though I'm not certain if Nebraska is better or worse than Tulane. 

Offense

After a wobbly, turnover laden game in week 1, Rattler had the dominant game everyone expected last week. In fact, you could name several players on the offense as MVP and not be wrong. I don't expect anything of that caliber this week. But, if guys do their jobs and take what is there, they should be able to put some points on a Nebraska defense that is a shell of the former vaunted Blackshirts. Today, I like Marvin Mims to have a big day. I think he stretches the defense and puts up big numbers with over 100+ receiving yards and 2 TDs. 

Defense

Pitching a shutout never hurts, and hopefully it means that week 1 was the wake-up call we hoped for. Adrian Martinez is solid, and he's the type of QB that gave OU trouble in the past as a solid runner that can throw it as well. The defense will have a solid challenge today. I like Isaiah Thomas to contain Martinez and the Nebraska RB's, and even produce a sack today. 

Score

The Sooners are favored by 22.5 today. I think Nebraska plays better than they have been and keeps this tighter than the Sooner faithful would like. Sooners manage to pull out the win today, 41-31.

Boomer to the Motherfuckin' Sooner

Oklahoma Sooner versus Nebraska Cornhuskers

Welcome to the show, friends. It's week three for the Sooners and the Nebraska Cornhuskers are making a reluctant return to Norman in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Game of the Century. The Huskers tried to bail on this game on account of the fact they have been setting football back since they made the move to the Big 10. Alas, the Sooners wouldn't have it. 

The Sooners are coming off a win against FCS foe Western Carolina. It was a game the Sooners needed to look sharp in and managed to exceed those expectations. It was a testament to the Sooners for being interested (which makes me mad to even need to type it). 

The worst case scenario for the Sooners is that the Huskers manage to use the pomp and history of this one to rise to a level factors beyond what they have demonstrated in the last decade. A once a decade performance need not be seen this weekend in Norman.

OFFENSE

On offense today I'm looking for another step forward for Spencer Rattler wherein he needs to find that reliable second wideout. Marvin Mims is clearly his favorite target and, of course, why not. But after that it's flinging spaghetti at the wall. It's not a bad thing to have so many options but who is the safety blanket? I'm thinking it's some version of Brayden Willis, Theo Wease or Jaden Haselwood. Haselwood, in particular, seems ready to get more action. Also, while not a big target, Mario Williams seems keenly interested in showing what he can do. I'm going with him for my OPOG. Something tells me he's going to show out on national tv. 

In other news on offense, Eric Grey looked great last week but he still needs to be used as changeup to Kennedy Brooks. Brooks is the running equivalent of a quick slant in Sooner offenses of yore. You're going to get positive yards every time and more often than not you'll get more than that. Sometimes much more! I think Brooks gets 15-20 carries today.

DEFENSE

Earlier this week, Alex Grinch called out by name most of the returning players from last year and not in a good way. So I am expecting someone among that bunch to come out with fire lit. I'll say it's David Ugwoegbu (Originally spelled Ogboegbo by me before looking it up).  He's my DPOG today and will so earn it by keeping a good eye on Husker quarterback Adrian Martinez.

Martinez seems to be the entire Husker offense so as he goes, they go. 

Keep an eye on this dude named Danny Stutsman. I may doom him to redshirt by mere utterance of his name, but he's a freshman linebacker who is second on the team in tackles thus far and out of his ten, eight are solo. He looks like a guy who Alex Grinch needs to find a way to get on the field more. 

SCORE

The Huskers are hot trash and have been for nigh on a decade now.  The fans need to enjoy the pomp and circumstance of this one but the Sooners need to TCB (take care of business). Tulane is legit probably better than Nebraska. I think the Sooner D takes a big step today and makes life miserable for Martinez and the Sooner offense looks trim and efficient on their way to putting up about 56 on the 50th anniversary of the big game.

I like the Sooners big. 56-24. Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner.

Oklahoma Sooners versus Western Carolina Catamounts

Hello Sooner fans and welcome to week 2 where the Sooners find themselves 1-0. As I write this, Ohio State has lost to Oregon. So, while the win against Tulane was an underwhelming and lackluster performance from the Sooners, I'd still rather be 1-0. Nobody will remember that close contest in three weeks.

Speaking of uninspired, how about that Western Carolina matchup. The Catamounts are 50 point underdogs and so help me if the Sooners don't beat it. 

OFFENSE

The Sooner offense comes into this one needing to find a rhythm and the offensive line has to take a sizeable step forward, double post-haste. Apparently Center Andrew Raym only played a handful of snaps last week and is getting the start today. Hopefully that will help the running game which I would love to see move the ball at will. 

Spencer Rattler needs to put up something gaudy today to keep himself on track. I'd love to see some fire out of him. Sometimes he seems bored or nonchalant and he's the guy who can keep the offense playing with an edge. Gabe Brkic being the Big 12 player of the week is like a Willy Mays Hays basket catch. 

Kennedy Brooks is my OPOG. Keep him healthy today and sit him after he gets his 150 in three quarters. The objective of this one needs to be getting the line some confidence and KB's sea legs fully underneath him. My backup choice for OPOG would be Marvin Mims who could easily go for 200 receiving yards himself. 

DEFENSE

I've attempted to rewatch the Tulane game and the D didn't seem that bad in the first half. It seems like the whole team took the second half off along with Sooner nation. These gentlemen need to play 60 and be able to get off the field on third and medium-long and fourth down. 

Today is a chance to play a shit ton of people and start figuring out who wants to be out there early and often. For my DPOG I'll go Isiah Thomas. He stood out to me last week and I'm riding the hot hand. 

THE SCORE

If the Sooners can feign interest for 60 minutes today they should be able to win 63-10. The worst nightmare would be injuries and/or a rash of penalties. This is nothing more than a tuneup and should be treated as such. I think they can turn last week into a positive because Lord knows they couldn't walk away from that without having plenty to improve upon. Let's see it today. TCB and be crisp.

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner.

Western Carolina

 Last week might have broken a record. The oft-mentioned record for most precipitous fall of my expectations, hopes and dreams of a solid Sooners team on both sides of the ball. It was at a nadir about half way through the first quarter. Then the second quarter happened and by half time my pucker factor was nearly zero. And yet, that was only the beginning. The defense did very OU things all the way through the game, namely maintaining their unprecedented ability to never get off of the fucking field with a key stop. But, the particularly maddening part is that the offense was unable to punch it in the end zone with several second quarter opportunities. Then, put up a staggeringly shitty performance in the second half. It turns out that an inability to score coupled with an inability to stop the other team is a 3 michelin star recipe for shitting the bed and blowing a lead, no matter how comfortable it might've seemed. 

Suffice to say, I was disgusted with the debacle we saw last week. And though I had certainly been drinking the proverbial kool-aid that this might be the Sooners year to compete for a national title, I've since spit it out and started chugging my patented doomsday grog. They have, presumably, one week to get their shit sorted on defense, stop throwing ridiculously bad interceptions, and get the ball in the end zone. The season isn't lost by any stretch, but it will be in short order if dramatic improvements aren't made on both sides of the ball. 

Who is Western Carolina you ask? I surmise they are in North, or possibly even South Carolina. If I had to guess, on the western aspect of the appropriate state. 

Offense

Spencer Rattler did not look all that great last week. The talent was never in question, and I was happy to see him tuck the ball and get some yardage with his legs last week. But these horrid interceptions that plagued him early last year will cost this team big games unless they are corrected. Today seems like a good opportunity to do that. While Kennedy Brooks was a beast last week, and I expect more of the same today, I'm going to go with Rattler for my OPG today. I think he rights the ship and cleans up the mistakes.

Defense

My god that was painful to watch. I appreciate the turnovers, those were huge and in the end, the reason the Sooners won. But it would be nice be able to generate pressure without blitzing, and even nicer to not leave WRs completely uncovered on obvious passing downs. I'm not completely demoralized by this defense yet, but I'm damn close. I really liked what I saw out of Perrion Winfrey at the end of last year. He's a big man and I like him to get a couple of sacks today.

Score

OU is favored by 50.5 today! After last week, I can't imagine doing enough of a 180 to cover that monster spread. But, I still think it's a drubbing. I'll take OU today 52-10. Let's get the bus back on the express route. 

Boomer to the Motherfuckin' Sooner.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Tulane Green Wave

Welcome back, Sooner fans. The world seems to be going to hell in a hand basket* as I type this but football is moving forward. Football will always be there. Speaking of forward, forward and upward is the trajectory of our Sooners and, if you can believe it, expectations and hype are higher than any year in recent memory. The Sooners take on the Tulane Green Wave in week 1.  Spencer Rattler is the early odds-on favorite to win the Heisman Trophy. The Sooner D, fresh off an ass beat of Florida in the Cotton Bowl, look as though they may not give up even a first down, much less a point all season. This in spite of notable departures at key positions in Country Music and PRCA Champion Ronnie Perkins and defensive backs Tre Brown and Tre Norwood.

Alas, the hype is much deserved. Spencer Rattler is back and should make a noticeable leap, the mere thought of which is kind of bananas. And he's surrounded, as per usual, with dynamic playmakers like Marvin Mims and Kennedy Brooks (who should be in incredible shape after a year off). It is with regret I do have to mention that dumbassery has negatively impacted this side of the ball with Trejan Bridges, Seth McGowan and Mikey Henderson all running afoul of the law and Marcus Major flunking his classes. All of these guys would have seen the field a lot. So it goes. 

OFFENSE

The Spencer Rattler leap is going to be fun to watch. The key to it happening is going to be making sure he doesn't get into any lulls where he's trying to do too much too fast. He needs rhythm. The addition of Mario Williams at wide receiver should help.

I'm also keenly interested in the running back group. They are thin and led by Kennedy Brooks. He took last year off because of Covid. Eric Gray is his backup and comes from Tennessee. Then there's.. nobody. I imagine Jeremiah Hall is going to get a lot of action. I'm not saying he's Rhamondre 2.0 but if you asked Rhamondre to play TE he could do it and he would look like Jeremiah Hall. That's trouble if utilized correctly.

For my OPOG I'm going Spencer. It's opening day. He's the Heisman front runner. Let's do this. 

DEFENSE

Expectations are sky high for this group which is a nice change. There are key pieces to replace in the secondary but it looks like the DJ Grahams and Woodi Washingtons of the world are ready to step up at defensive back.

Today I'm watching the linebackers and nickle spot. There is talk about how the 'backers are some of the best the coaches have ever assembled. Let's see it. I'm going Nik Bonitto, preseason All American, for DPOG. How nice is it to have a front seven that is full of playmakers? Also, interestingly the Sooners feel they have enough depth to use eight guys among the front four. 

As far as nickle goes, Billy Bowman is the guy to watch. Much ballyhooed out of high school, he was expected to see the field on either side of the ball and he's getting his first chance on D replacing departed knucklehead Brendan Radley Hiles. I think he might also be a kick returner. He's a serious athlete.

THE SCORE

It's a shame climate change has moved this game to Norman. That would have been a cool atmosphere in Nola. I don't think it affects the outcome much. I expect the Sooners to cruise with the second unit on offense getting some oohs and aahs in mop up time. If Caleb Williams gets to play that will be must see tv.

I'm going sooner 49, Green Wave 10

Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner!

* When I speak of the world going to hell I mean specifically that this past week Hurricane Ida ravaged most of the eastern half of the United States, starting with Louisiana. The Sooners and Green Wave were scheduled to play in New Orleans and now the Sooners get an extra home game. 

Tulane

 Welcome back loyal reader(s)! It is the dawn of yet another season here at The Steamroller. It's been a pretty exciting off-season, which is a relative scale to say the least, and we are on the cusp of another college football season. Since we last were here, our beloved Sooners, and texas have made the decision to move to the SEC. Essentially creating one conference to dominate them all and leaving the rest of the college football landscape to lurk in the shadows. The Big 12, and any lingering remnants of the Big 8 (I'm an old bastard), will finally be extinguished. I'm torn on this because I'm nostalgic, but also realistically this is a good thing for OU. No matter, it will be fun. I digress, on to the season at hand...

OU finds themselves unexpectedly in the friendly confines of Owen Field today. As most (all?, because c'mon, no one reads this that I don't force to) of you know, my wife and I live in New Orleans. The city was hammered by Hurricane Ida last weekend, and large parts of the city still do not have electricity. It's a sad state, but New Orleans is resilient and this too shall pass. In the meantime, a football game at Tulane was not feasible. So, the Green Wave are making their way up to the Sooner State for the season opener. In spite of the fact that OU is surrounded by the most optimism in probably a decade, Tulane is not a pushover. Couple that with a very real rallying point of overcoming a natural disaster to play this game, I think the Sooners have their work cut out for them. 

Offense

The Sooners got some bad news this week when it was announced that potential break-out player, WR Theo Wease would miss "several weeks" with a leg injury. The only silver lining to that is that WR is probably where the Sooners have the most depth. Nevertheless, it's a big loss as Wease is no Judge Smails, i.e. a slouch. In spite of that, the Sooners offense appears to be "loaded." They return almost every major skill player except Rhamondre Stevenson. But, while his loss hurts, they get back Kennedy Brooks (last season opt-out) and raise you one Eric Gray (transfer from Tennessee). Not to mention, the presumptive Heisman favorite Spencer Rattler at QB. I'm fully a firm chub at the thought of this. While I think Rattler has a great game today, I'm picking Kennedy Brooks today. I think by the end of the season that Brooks is established as one of the top 5 backs in the country. He sets the bar today with 100+ rushing yards and a TD. 

Defense

This portion of the column has been such a shitshow the last decade or so that I often don't even bother. However, I think this year might be a little different. Are the Sooners going to be a top 5 defense? No, they are not. But, they don't have to be either. They simply have to be adequate. And I am very optimistic they might actually be adequate. I hope that wasn't the jinx to end them all. Today I like Nik Bonitto. Dude was a beast last year and I think he picks up where he left off and leads a quietly solid defense today.

Score 

The line has OU winning by 32. I love the Sooners and I am cautiously optimistic about the season from a Playoff perspective. But, Tulane has talent.  I like the Sooners to win, but I'm taking Tulane to cover city. OU wins 41-21. It's good to be back.

Boomer to the Motherfuckin Sooner