Sooner Football: Five Takeaways From Oklahoma’s Bedlam Victory

Dec 6, 2014; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys running back Desmond Roland (26) scores a touchdown against the Oklahoma Sooners during the fourth quarter at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Defense: Bent but Did Not Break

Statistically, the 457 yards the Sooner defense gave up to the Cowboys appears less than sterling. And the Cowboys gained a healthy 6.2 yards per play. But, the Oklahoma defense proved to be opportunistic once again: Jordan Thomas snagged two interceptions, including a pick-six off a Mason Rudolph pass.

On a down note, the Oklahoma defense did not sack J.W. Walsh or Mason Rudolph once, although Mike Stoops dialed up plenty of looks that confused both quarterbacks and bottled up the Cowboy running attack.

Oklahoma State also had some success with the long ball: a couple of J.W. Walsh floaters were caught by Cowboy receivers for long gains. In both instances, cornerback Zach Sanchez appeared to slip and miss on the opportunity to break up the pass or intercept the ball. Overall, it was a solid effort by the Sooner defense, which has been the class of the Big 12 throughout the season. And given the Big 12’s wide-open passing attacks, this experience will serve the Sooners well come playoff time.

Next: Oklahoma Is Playoff-Ready