After narrowly defeating Houston, Oklahoma football faces several significant concerns that could impact its season.
Defensive Vulnerabilities
The Sooners’ defense struggled against Houston’s passing attack, allowing too many big plays and failing to contain the Cougars’ receivers. Communication breakdowns and missed tackles were evident, raising questions about the secondary’s ability to handle high-powered offenses in the Big 12.
**Quarterback Consistency**: While the offense showed flashes of brilliance, inconsistent play from the quarterback position is troubling. There were moments of hesitation and inaccurate throws that stalled drives. For Oklahoma to compete at a high level, the quarterback must establish more rhythm and confidence.
**Offensive Line Performance**: The offensive line faced challenges in both pass protection and run blocking. Houston’s defensive front disrupted the backfield, leading to negative plays that put pressure on the offense. Improvement in this area is crucial for maintaining balance and allowing the run game to thrive.
**Injury Concerns**: Injuries have begun to pile up, particularly among key starters. Depth will be tested as the season progresses, and the coaching staff needs to manage player health while maintaining competitive performance.
**Special Teams Issues**: Special teams were inconsistent, with missed kicks and coverage breakdowns that could have cost the game. In a tightly contested season, these mistakes can be detrimental.
Overall, while a win is a win, Oklahoma must address these concerns urgently. The upcoming matchups will be crucial, and improvement in these areas will determine their success as they strive for a championship run.
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