Happy Saturday, Sooner fans. Everyone should have a little extra bounce in their step this week after the Sooners pulled off one of the most exciting victories in recent memory last week. After an abysmal first half for the offense, the Sooner defense and special teams played well enough to keep things close and then the offense and, John Mateer in particular, managed the game, the defense had a chance to make some big plays, which they did, and Tate Sandell brought it home with a winning field goal as time expired.
This week Kentucky comes to Norman, themselves fresh off a big home win against LSU. The angle on this one, to me, seems to be who can avoid the letdown.
OFFENSE
The Sooners found something in the second half last week, particularly with Lloyd Avant in the running game. More importantly, John Mateer demonstrated the importance of taking care of the ball. He didn't turn the ball over and made some big throws when it mattered. Hopefully that helps the entire offense coming into this week.
It also appears the Sooners could be getting some offensive lineman back this week, another big plus. These Sooners are at their best playing a methodical, pro style offense. They went back to Mateer under center, traditional formations and they did a good job of working the ball downfield.
They need more of it today and I will ride the hot hand of Lloyd Avant for my OPOG, although if the line can take another step forward this week, I think Jonathan Hatton is about to have a bust out performance.
DEFENSE
The Kentucky offense might be the most dynamic the Sooners have faced so far this year. Will Stein is obviously missed at Oregon. This will be a big test for the Sooner D.
However, there is no doubt this will be the toughest test for the Wildcats as well. And at home, fresh off the big win, the Sooners should be confident and flying to the football.
I'm going to go with a wild card here and take Reggie Powers for my DPOG. If there is one thing you can count on with a Brent Venables defense, it's a well timed blitz at a big moment and, to my mind, Reggie Powers is as good as anyone at getting to the QB when it matters.
THE SCORE
One team comes off a legendary win against an arch rival, the other a field storming home win to celebrate the start of a new chapter in an inglorious football tradition.
I think OU will be the one ready to meet the moment today, although Kentucky will be tough.
I'll take the Sooners 31, Kentucky 27
Boomer to the motherfuckin Sooner
