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NORMAN — OU football opened spring ball on Thursday with its first practice.
It was the first chance for new offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle to get on the field and work with his players, as well as new defensive hires Nate Dreiling and Wes Goodwin. Washington State transfer quarterback John Mateer also participated in his first practice in a Sooners jersey.
How did OU look on Day 1?
More: John Mateer shows why he can handle pressure of being OU football’s starting QB
OU football practice takeaways
Washington State transfer quarterback John Mateer certainly looked the part during Thursday’s opening period of practice. Mateer showed off a strong arm with accuracy and touch while he threw a variety of different routes. He also threw well on the run. Mateer threw for 3,139 yards and 29 touchdowns with seven interceptions last season and ran for 826 yards and 15 touchdowns for the Cougars last season in Ben Arbuckle’s offense.
Jaren Kanak has officially switched from linebacker to tight end. He fit right in with the rebuilt group during practice, catching several passes and showing physicality during drills. He worked solely with the tight ends. Davon Mitchell looked bulkier, he’s up to 275 pounds from 259.
Running back Jovantae Barnes, who Venables said Wednesday would be limited with the foot injury he dealt with last season, was suited up but didn’t participate.
The buzz about early enrollee freshman wide receiver Elijah Thomas is palpable. He showcased impressive athleticism during route-running drills. Transfer wide receiver Javonnie Gibson, listed at 6-foot-2 on the updated roster, also stood out among the receivers. Speedy transfer wide receiver Isaiah Sategna practiced at punt returner.
Former five-star defensive lineman David Stone, who played in all 12 games last season, was among the biggest weight gainers…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/article/ou-football-spring-practice-observations-002459511.html
Author : The Oklahoman
Publish date : 2025-03-07 00:24:00
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