The Oklahoma Sooners weaknesses have taken center stage as the Texas Longhorns await this weekend. Renewing a rivalry with national implications inside the Cotton Bowl is something fans have clamored for year after year. Now it’s finally happening. As the two collide, here are three offensive players who must step up to the challenge.
Trey Sermon
It’s no secret that the team with the most rushing years typically wins the Red River Rivalry. However, the Sooners have not showcased a dominant rushing attack without Rodney Anderson on the field. With plenty of options to choose from, the coaching staff may very well cycle through the lot. But, Trey Sermon remains the one back to keep an eye on. Now a sophomore, word spread that the running back was faster and stronger. Despite the claim, Sermon has only eclipsed the 100-yard mark once this season. On Saturday, his physical downhill running style will be relied on and the sophomore must come through.
Jonathan Alvarez
After losing the battle at the center position to Creed Humphrey, the future of Jonathan Alvarez was tossed into a state of flux. However, an injury to Ben Powers forced the center back to left guard. In a moment of transition, Alvarez found himself being pushed around against Baylor. The lack of explosiveness left a deficiency in the rushing attack — something vital to the success of the Sooners. Assuming Powers sits on the sideline for a second consecutive game, Alvarez must prepare for the challenge ahead.
Grant Calcaterra
Recently, Oklahoma has found a way to involve the tight end the game plan. Continuing to recruit capable players at the position, it doesn’t appear as though the trend is going anywhere. Struggling to catch the ball last weekend, Grant Calcaterra will receive another shot against Texas. Devoting much of the attention to Ceedee Lamb and Marquise Brown, the receiving game should open up for the tight end. It’ll be on Calcaterra’s shoulders to reel in the pass and punish the defense with his size and abilities.