Oklahoma football: Sooners finish on top for five-star Safety Peyton Bowen

Oklahoma football was involved in one of the craziest recruitments I have ever covered, as ultimately, the Sooners won the commitment of five-star safety Peyton Bowen. The long-time Notre Dame pledge was expected to flip to Oklahoma for months, and when the time came, the Sooners did not even have a hat on the table (though it was in the bag). The Oregon hat was snatched after Bowen ripped off the Irish headgear. The world was shocked, as it was ultimately expected to be Oklahoma or Notre Dame.

Trying to please everyone at 18 is difficult

These young men face difficult life decisions at such a young age, and build legitimate relationships with staff across the country. Had Peyton held out on his commitment a few more weeks, I speculate he would never have made the commitment to Notre Dame, to begin with.  The previous staff did not earn much respect from the Bowen family, and the current staff has, but he was already committed to the Irish at that time. When push came to shove, a nervous young man at the moment made a few mistakes he stated he regretted instantly, he was described as a quiet, hard-working young man, but the recruiting process was difficult for him. Ultimately he was trying not to let down too many people, he built strong relationships with, such difficult decisions most adults do not face until a much older age. Also, this is not an insinuation of the disrespectful rumor rumbling on the internet about his parents. Do your best to respect him, and his family and refuse to indulge in such nonsense.

Where does Bowen rate among defensive signees at Oklahoma recently?

Bowen is the best defensive prospect Oklahoma has signed since Gerald McCoy. I recognize  PJ is fantastic, and Oklahoma had so many other big-time players on defense. But there are levels to this, and Bowen has the ability to help the Sooners right away, in a way that few players can impact. Expectations are high for Peyton, and when you turn the tape on, rightfully so.

Scouting of Peyton Bowen

Peyton has elite speed, range, ball skills, and return skills. Bowen could have been a highly touted wide receiver as well, he is a smooth athlete who can cut, and accelerate uniquely. Great top-end speed, is a strong tackler and takes good angles and finishes. He should impact right away, similar to former OU safety Reggie McNeal. He could also play multiple positions on the back end, including cornerback.