Sooners’ 2015 Football: Breaking Down the November Homestretch
By Sixto Ortiz
Nov 8, 2014; Norman, OK, USA; Baylor Bears running back Corey Coleman (1) runs as Oklahoma Sooners cornerback Julian Wilson (2) defends during the game at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
November 14: Into the Bears’ Lair
Why OU Might Win
This is the first of a murderers’ row of games to close the regular season for OU.
After last year’s debacle in Norman, it may be reasonable to expect the Sooners to drop this contest in Waco against a Baylor team that seems to get better and better offensively each passing season. If Baylor’s spring game is any indication, the Bears will not miss an offensive beat with Seth Russell at the helm.
However, any team can have a bad outing, and once again the Sooners coaching staff – especially the defense – will have revenge on their minds. If the Sooners defense can solve Baylor’s aerial attack and actually get some defensive stops, OU’s sterling rushing offense will be able to control the tempo of the game. For OU to win this contest in Waco, the defensive game-planning and execution will have to be superb. Offensively, the Sooners must control the game tempo to have a realistic shot.
Why OU Might Lose
Unfortunately, odds are that OU will drop this game. Even though the Bears lost Bryce Petty to graduation, Seth Russell appears to be a more than adequate substitute. Shock Linwood’s return means Russell has great experience in the backfield to count on if OU’s defense is able to slow down the passing game. A huge “if” at this time.
Even though OU will make strides and improve upon 2014’s disastrous campaign, Baylor brings too much offensive firepower and a defense respectable enough to clamp down on the Sooner offense and control the game from start to finish. This one goes to the Bears.
Interesting Fact
Even though Oklahoma owns a commanding 21-3 series lead over the Bears, the tide is definitely turning in the Bears’ favor. Since 2011, Baylor has beaten Oklahoma three out of four times. Lately, the Bears’ margins of victory have been downright ugly: In 2013 and 2014, Baylor won decisively, with an 89-26 combined margin of victory. Ouch!
Next: November 21st: The Frogs Come to Norman