In a pairing with the Iowa State Cyclones this weekend, the Oklahoma Sooners defense will be tested once again. Hoping to turn in a productive outing not only on the stat sheet but also the scoreboard, a couple of names will need to step up in a big way.
Jaden Davis | Cornerback
Against the Kansas State Wildcats, the officiating crew ejected Parnell Motley for unsportsmanlike conduct. It revealed that fact that Motley is subject to a lack of confidence at times. Those moments lead to frustration which could prove costly as it has done before. Earning more playing time, Jaden Davis currently holds down the back up position. Often working his way onto the field, Davis is a prime target for offensive coordinators due to inexperience. Yet, the true freshman cornerback consistently displays textbook tackling technique along with acute field awareness. Entering Saturday, the opposing quarterback and receivers are likely to try that side of the field early and often regardless of the name Motley or Davis.
Ryan Jones | Linebacker
The Cyclones typically find and employ a productive tight end each and every year. This go around it’s Charlie Kolar leading the charge in that department. On any given Saturday, the Sooners would allow Brendan Radley-Hiles to draw the responsibility. But this is a unique challenge as Kolar showcases the ability to run block as well. The size difference alone puts Radley-Hiles at a significant disadvantage in all scenarios. What this translates to is a linebacker most likely receiving the task. All signs point toward that being the SAM linebacker in Ryan Jones.