Oklahoma Spring Game 2016 – What To Look For

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Oct 3, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Durron Neal (5) celebrates with wide receiver Dede Westbrook (11) after scoring a touchdown against the West Virginia Mountaineers in the fourth quarter at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

Will the Young Wide Receivers Blossom?

No doubt about it, the departure of star wide receiver Sterling Shepard hurts. Add Durron Neal to that list and there is no doubt that the Sooner wide-receiver corps took some hits to graduations.

But the Sooners have recruited well at wide receiver, and a talented group of youngsters stands ready to step into the spotlight. Will they blossom or will they wilt under the bright lights?

Thankfully, the Sooners have taken some steps to soften the attrition blows. For starters, Dede Westbrook returns. The talented senior had a decent campaign in 2015 (743 yards and four TDs) but must step it up substantially in 2016 if the Sooners hope to replace Shepard’s production. Oklahoma will also gain the services of Penn State transfer Geno Lewis, who will bring significant experience.

And no one can forget the enormous potential of tight end/wide-receiver hybrid Mark Andrews. Even though Andrews tallied just 318 yards receiving, he hauled in seven TDs, and if he makes significant progress next season, he could become the best tight end to don the crimson and cream since Jermaine Gresham.

It will be interesting to see how much progress guys like Michiah Quick, Jeffrey Mead and Jarvis Baxter will make after further time in Lincoln Riley’s system. Oklahoma’s receiving corps, even though it lost some key contributors to graduation, is an intriguing group that could become something special in 2016. Saturday’s game will be a first glimpse at this group’s potential.

Next: The Running Game Continues to Hum

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