Oct 18, 2014; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Samaje Perine (32) runs as Kansas State Wildcats defensive back Dylan Schellenberg (20) defends during the first quarter at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
In recent weeks we have broken down each of the OU football position units on offense, defense, special teams, as well as the coaching staff. Now it’s time to offer up letter grades on how we believe each of the units will perform relative to the high expectations Sooner fans hold for their football team each and every season.
Offense
With the installation of a new “Air Raid” style of offense this season, the Sooners should be much more balanced and, therefore, more productive than they were a year ago. OU may not lead the league in rushing offense like it did last season. But that does not say that the Sooners will be less potent running the ball (they may even be more effective). What it does say is that with a more dynamic and wide open passing attack, the OU offense won’t have to rely on running the ball to move the chains and sustain drives. Texas Tech transfer Baker Mayfield is a better fit than Trevor Knight for the over-the-top, quick strike offense new offensive coordinator Lincoln Riley is putting in, although he must get better throwing the ball into tight coverages. Grade: B+
Next: Quarterback