Murray might be a future OU star, but it's unlikely he'll start right off
Murray might be a future OU star, but it's unlikely he'll start right off

By John Helsley
Published: April 16, 2007

Who's ready for more DeMarco Murray?

You. And you and you. And you, you, you and you…

Advertisement

No worries, Murray figures to be a main man in Oklahoma's offense for 2007. Maybe THE main man.

And at the risk of jumping the ledge before he even takes off with his first collegiate snap, Murray may be in line to emerge as OU's next great runner.

All that said, don't expect him to start at tailback when the Sooners open the season Sept. 1 against North Texas. In the slot? Maybe.

But Bob Stoops prefers caution when it comes to firing freshmen into the fray.

There's a measure of loyalty to proven veterans, not to mention a demand for youngsters to earn running rights with the first team.

Remember, Adrian Peterson didn't make his debut as a starter until his fourth game as a Sooner.

Not that Peterson's talents were wasted early. He became the first Sooner ever to rush for 100 yards in each of his first four games.

Murray can do some things — some special things. This we learned from spring.

Also learned:
Movers
Five players who moved up in the eyes of coaches:

Murray: He runs, or better yet, glides. He catches. He makes people miss. He makes fans miss Adrian Peterson a little less.

Adron Tennell: Seizing opportunity with Malcolm Kelly out recovering from knee surgery, Tennell made a case for being considered OU's second-best wide receiver.

Cory Brandon: James Patton is building the best offensive line depth of the Stoops era, creating intense competition for starting jobs. Brandon may deserve one.

Dominique Franks: Learned all five secondary spots and blew past older players in positioning himself to be the first backup called to the field.

Gerald McCoy: Showed his redshirt season was well spent. His element of athletic ability at defensive tackle is much needed.

Issues
Solved
Running back: Along with Murray, Chris Brown produced a solid spring and showed a toughness for the rugged duty of running inside. Allen Patrick is a given. And before an ankle injury slowed him, Mossis Madu made an impression.

Pending
Quarterback: The job wasn't going to be settled in spring. But none of the three candidates — Sam Bradford, Joey Halzle or Keith Nichol — relaxed concerns surrounding the position.

Linebacker: The loss of Ryan Reynolds to another knee injury forced shuffling and hampered progress of the unit. Mike Reed's transition from junior college is a work in progress.

Defensive end: Alonzo Dotson and John Williams produced good springs. Both must now carry it over to the fall.

Strong safety: Now D.J. Wolfe is in the mix at a spot where coaches keep searching for answers.


 


Toolbar sponsored by: David Stanley Ford

Brasada Ranch Real Estate
Homesites with panoramic views in Central Oregon. Features private golf course and equestrian facilities.
www.brasada.com

Junkmycar.com
Read this Towing & Wrecking Service's reviews & find Auto Info.
Oklahomacity.Citysearch.com

shareView All

Buzz Up!



Sports Photo Galleriesview all