Earlier this season, some critics tried taking shots at OU defensive coordinator Brent Venables, suggesting the Sooners had slipped under his guidance.
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Where are they now?
The Sooners have improved dramatically, leading the Big 12 in scoring defense, pass defense and total defense. Nationally, OU ranks in the top 25 in each of those categories.
"We were awful close early in the year to playing like we are now, to playing like we're expecting ourselves to," Bob Stoops said. "We would have some certain individuals in certain areas break down, that's not (Venables') fault.
"As much as you would always like to take the blame, sometimes guys are in position. They need to be able to step up and do it.
"I think Brent has worked with our guys in a great way the entire year. It's showed for many, many weeks now. We're playing like we thought all along we were capable of. Some thought we were blowing smoke, but we're decent."
• No defense: Baylor has dropped three straight games and four of its last five.
One major culprit: defense.
After surrendering an average of 327.7 yards through their first six games, the Bears haven't held anyone under 382 in their last five. Their past three foes have gained 507 yards or more.
And teams are suddenly beating up Baylor on the ground, highlighted by a season-high 387 posted by Oklahoma State last Saturday.
"I'm a real positive-thinking person, but the way we've been playing lately, it's been horrible," Bears defensive back Maurice Linguist said. "I'm embarrassed, frustrated, questioning things."
• Seeing red: Despite his team fading from bowl contention, Baylor coach Guy Morriss said he'll approach Saturday's meeting with OU like any other.
He'll resist jumping ahead to 2007 by taking any extended look at his young players in the team's season finale.
"In our case, you won't see us wholesale bench the seniors and play all the young guys, just trying to prepare for next season," Morriss said.
"We've got to give it our best shot and see if we can't win the football game. To me, that's what these kids came here to do was play football. ‘I'm going to give it my best shot because it's my last shot.' And I'd be excited, if for no other reason, just because it's a chance to play Oklahoma."
By John Helsley
