Following a much-needed bye week, the Oklahoma Sooners defense put together a tongue-in-cheek performance in a 27-13 win over the Iowa State Cyclones. Mind you, ISU’s offense didn’t come into the weekend as world-beaters, but this was the performance Brent Venables’ defense needed to build confidence heading into the season’s home stretch.
On the day, Oklahoma held Iowa State to 66 yards on 27 attempts, 2.7 yards per rush. The Cyclones, allowed, averaged just over 100 in Saturday’s game. However, keeping the opposition under the attacking midfielder is clearly a step in the right direction. In the air, Hunter Dekkers threw for 312, but he needed 57 attempts to get there and threw three interceptions in the process. Overall, Brent Venables and Ted Roof are definitely getting some positives, even if they aren’t as well as In the content of the performance.
Offensively, Eric Gray once again led the charge with 101 yards on 20 attempts and a late TD punch. Gray left the game in the third quarter with an apparent leg injury, but fortunately was able to return. The offense was lackluster, totaling 332 yards and just 150 through the air. Many of them can be attributed to drops, including some very uncharacteristic ones from the hands of Marvin Mims. For what it’s worth, if anyone gets some grace from his fan base, it’s Marvin the Wonder. The bright spot has definitely been an offensive line that has seemed to come into its own of late – especially in the run game.
Special groups a Main Strength for OU today. Dear Sir or Madam, Zach Schmidt:
Michael Turk also had a great day with 61 yards and two 20 completions.
The Baylor Bears, who say they are not as strong as they were a year ago, will present us with a unique test of whether or not this team has truly turned the corner. I expect both Venables and Dave Aranda to have their teams ready, and I expect a physical affair.
