Nov 1, 2014; Ames, IA, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Alex Ross (28) rushes against the Iowa State Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
Special Teams
For the first time in the Bob Stoops era, the Sooners could have one player doing the punting and placekicking. True freshman Austin Seibert was the nation’s top kicker available in the 2015 recruiting class. The Sooners also have an invaluable weapon on kickoffs in redshirt senior Nick Hodgson, who converted 64 percent of his kickoffs into touchbacks last season. Hodgson could also give Seibert some competition in the field-goal department. He has looked good in August practice sessions knocking through his FG attempts.
Junior Alex Ross has more than proved himself as a giant threat returning kickoff. The speedy Sooner running back averaged 27.6 yards per return in 2014 and returned two kickoffs to the house, one for 100 yards.
The punt return duties will be handled primarily by Sterling Shepard, although it will not be a surprise to see Michiah Quick and Dede Westbrook used in that capacity, as well. The bottom line is that OU looks very sound on special teams heading into the 2015 season. Grade: B+.
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