Oklahoma football
What lessons will we learn from this first game?
This is the third and last of three preseason roundtable meetings for the Oklahoma Sooners in 2021. We go on to the miscellaneous category after reviewing the offense and defense.
We all know who we believe will win the Big 12 in 2021, but who will come in second?
Allen: TCU, but for the last five years, I’ve predicted the Horned Frogs to finish second.
Stephen: Iowa State University. They have the experience and the coach to repeat the process.
Seth: Just so Lincoln Riley can level the score against Chris Klieman, I’m going to Kansas State.
Jack: I’m from Texas. I believe it would be cool to defeat Texas twice in one season.
In an effort to foresee the future, what do you believe your primary takeaway from the season opener vs. Tulane will be?
Allen: The Sooners will look crisp in the first half and establish a big enough lead to bring in the starters for the second half. Even if the Green Wave scores a few late points, there shouldn’t be any concerns about OU’s “killer instinct” as there were last season.
Stephen: Oklahoma has all the makings of a national title contender. It was Alex Grinch’s most thorough defense to date. Oklahoma’s offense seems to be improving, and someone will argue that Caleb Williams should be the starting quarterback going forward.
Seth: I’m on defense. Defense, defense, defense. The D-line, in particular. I anticipate that group living up to their high expectations and putting up a show from beginning to end. Pass breakups, forced fumbles, numerous sacks, and tackles-for-loss for several players are all on the table. All nine of them.
Jack: Rattler dazzles by evenly spreading the rock among his targets. After some early miscues, the defense seemed to be in good shape. Mike Woods, Eric Gray, Mario Williams, and Billy Bowman are the most notable additions.
The current OU-Tulane line is-31.5. Do the Sooners have a defense?
Tulane will slip in via the back door for a late cover, according to Allen.
Stephen: The state of Oklahoma is covered. Lincoln, I believe, will want to show what he has offensively, which means he will not let up on the gas pedal.
Seth: I believe OU will cover it, and I don’t believe it will be close. I’d be surprised if the Sooners won by less than four touchdowns. In fact, I believe the final margin will be in the range of 35-42 points.
Jack: I’m going with an OU cover because I believe this team’s depth — especially on defense — will keep it intact in the second half.
In 2021, which college football analyst will annoy you the most?
Kirk Herbstreit, Allen. He’s a good commentator, but he has an apparent conflict of interest since his children play for Clemson. He’s essentially become Dabo Swinney’s hype guy.
Stephen: I’m not sure I have one in mind. I’ll add that anybody who claims Oklahoma’s choice to join the SEC was terrible for college football ignores Bowlsby’s inability to keep a P5 conference together. Because Joey Galloway doesn’t watch much football, I’ll go with him.
Seth: I lose brain cells whenever Jim Mora Jr. appears on my screen. I’m not sure whether he’s still employed by ESPN or not, but I hope his microphone is switched off wherever he is. Also, for the rest of my life, I really hope Tim Brando is never assigned to call another OU game.
Jack: My first pick, Tommy Tuberville, is now in the US Senate, so he’s out.
Is OU going to win the Natty No. 8 this year?
Allen : Yes
Yes, Stephen.
Yes, Seth.
Jack: At the risk of injuring myself once again… yes.
What is your favorite aspect of New Orleans? (Note: You are able to respond even if you haven’t been)
Allen: I like New Orleans, but my favorite attraction is the Port of Call on the Esplanade.
Stephen: I’ve never visited New Orleans before, but I want to go there next spring. I want to question Trevor Knight about the voodoo sorcery he employed against Alabama. Beignets are also said to be delicious.
Seth: I’ve never been to New Orleans, but I’m a big lover of Cajun food. So, if I do make the trip, the cuisine will most likely be my favorite part.
more: LSU Football vs UCLA: The College Gameday Crew Picks
Jack: The meal was fantastic (shout-out to the Court of Two Sisters). Live music at venues such as Tipitinas is an unforgettable experience. The to-go drink option is convenient, but this year in Norman, you’ll be able to do so on game day. The town’s historical importance is limitless. It’s very tough to choose just one item.
DOUBLE BONUS: Which SEC fan base will you hate the most if Oklahoma enters the league?
Allen: The state of Alabama. It’s more about the men with pom-poms… uh, “shakers” in the stands.
Stephen: It’s difficult to choose between Texas A & M and LSU. But I’m going with A & M.
Seth: Probably Auburn fanatics during football season. Definitely ‘Bama supporters during softball season.
Jack: Arkansas supporters already have the idea that OU is their adversary, so this will just add to their sense of inferiority. I like hog fans, but their delusions are unfathomable.
also, see source:
Oklahoma Sooners Football: Five big questions entering the 2021 season (Misc.)
