sportingnews
In a surprising turn of events at the Cotton Bowl on Saturday, Oklahoma's offense, which has been heavily criticized, might have discovered a blueprint for success. Despite amassing only 234 total yards against the top-ranked Texas Longhorns, the Sooners secured a 27-24 upset victory, thanks in large part to special teams and defensive scores. However, the offense's second-half performance offered a glimmer of hope for offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle's unit.
In the first half, Oklahoma managed just 69 yards and failed to score any offensive points. But after halftime, the Sooners exploded for 169 yards and 13 offensive points against one of the nation's elite defenses. The key adjustment? A commitment to the running game. Oklahoma ran the ball 18 times for 82 yards in the second half while attempting only 13 passes. This shift in philosophy proved crucial, as it slowed down Texas' formidable pass rush and allowed quarterback John Mateer to operate more effectively.
Key Analysis
Arbuckle, known for his stubbornness, went against his natural inclination to pass and instead leaned on the ground game. The decision to feature running back Lloyd Avant paid immediate dividends. On the Sooners' first possession of the second half, Avant caught a short pass for eight yards and then ripped off a 42-yard run two plays later, setting up a field goal that shifted the game's momentum. Avant finished with 72 rushing yards and a touchdown on 10 carries, plus two receptions for eight yards. His performance was not an anomaly; he has been the team's most consistent back all season, averaging 4.5 yards per carry, while the rest of the team averages just 2.1 yards per carry.
Avant's emergence as a reliable weapon has been evident since the season opener against UTEP, where he impressed on his first three carries. The Colorado State transfer now has 52 carries for 236 yards this season, while his teammates have combined for 114 carries and 243 yards. The disparity is stark: Xavier Robinson averages 3.8 yards per carry, Jonathan Hatton 2.9, and Tory Blaylock 2.2. It's clear that Avant is the guy, and the Sooners have finally recognized it.
Looking ahead, the schedule lightens up considerably for Oklahoma. The defenses they have faced so far are ranked as follows in yards allowed per game (out of 138 FBS schools): UTEP 110, Michigan 3, New Mexico 10, Georgia 11, and Texas 13. In contrast, the remaining opponents rank: Kentucky 100, Mississippi State 96, South Carolina 58, Florida 109, Ole Miss 108, Texas A&M 43, and Missouri 29. This softer slate should provide ample opportunities for the offense to find its rhythm.
Additionally, the Sooners won without injured offensive linemen Michael Fasusi and Eddy Pierre-Louis. Their return would bolster the line's talent and depth, giving Mateer more time and comfort in the pocket, which should lead to fewer mistakes. While this team may not replicate the 2017 Sooners led by Baker Mayfield, they appear ready to make a significant leap offensively in the coming weeks. They have seemingly embraced their identity and committed to Avant. With momentum on their side and a defense that continues to shine, Oklahoma still has a chance to make this a memorable season.
Originally reported by sportingnews.