NORMAN — When OU football released its initial depth chart Sunday night, there were a few surprises. Notably, Jayden Jackson will be the fourth true freshman to start a Sooners season opener on the defensive line.
Another true freshman — Michael Hawkins Jr. — impressed during preseason camp and was named OU’s No. 2 quarterback over veteran Casey Thompson. Gavin Sawchuk and Jovantae Barnes were listed as “OR’s” on the depth chart.
Competition will continue at kicker as Zach Schmit will handle kickoffs and Florida State transfer Tyler Keltner will serve as the Sooners’ placekicker. Billy Bowman Jr. will return kicks and Peyton Bowen will return punts.
The position with the question marks entering the season for head coach Brent Venables’ squad is offensive line. Venables discussed how “fun” of a group it’s been to coach ahead of the season. Competition will continue at tight end with Jake Roberts and Bauer Sharp being listed as “OR’s.”
Also on this edition of the “Sooners Xtra” podcast, The Oklahoman’s Ryan Aber and Colton Sulley predict who will lead OU in receiving, rushing and make game predictions for the Sooners vs. Temple, which kicks off at 6 p.m. Friday in Norman on ESPN.
REQUIRED READING: Will OU football’s defense have offense it can be proud of? Brent Venables flipped script.
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This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Breaking down OU football’s depth chart, predictions for 2024 season
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/lead-ou-football-stat-categories-225716359.html
Author : The Oklahoman
Publish date : 2024-08-27 22:57:16
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