The Oklahoma Sooners built a 21-point lead at 35-14 heading into the break behind a stellar first half from Ceedee Lamb. Racking up 144 yards in the first thirty minutes of play, the receiver accounted for two scores. Despite a commanding performance out of the gate, the closing half provided a much different narrative.
Forcing two turnovers, the Iowa State Cyclones seized any and all momentum. Storming back, Brock Purdy utilized the talents of the receiving unit around him to score three times in the fourth quarter. On the final score of the night, the signal caller once again connected with Charlie Kolar. On the road, trailing 42-41, Matt Campbell rolled the dice with a 2-point conversion attempt. Unable to complete the pass, the Cyclones’ comeback bid fell short.
Rapid Reaction
The Good
It appears as though the rushing attack is once again viable. After being heavily criticized during the Kansas State outing, Lincoln Riley called upon No. 26 Kennedy Brooks more often. Rushing for 132 yards on 15 carries, fans hope the trend continues.
Ceedee Lamb remains a man amongst boys on the field. Often the best player on the turf at any given time, the receiver continues to make big plays. Avoiding tackles and muscling his way into the endzone, Lamb now has five games of 100+ yards this season.
Still perfect on the year, Gabe Brkic added six extra points made to the resume. What could have easily been a point of concern heading into the season is not a talking point anymore.
The Bad
Once again, the Sooners defense failed to produce a turnover. The occasion marks the fifth consecutive game without a takeaway. Yes, Parnell Motley intercepted the 2-point conversion attempt. However, it will not be marked as an interception on the stat sheet.
The secondary is obviously thin when it comes to capable bodies. Expect the coaching staff to address the depleted secondary during the recruiting cycle.
An unwelcome trend remains the weak edge of the defensive front seven. Containment is a design built into all play calls from Alex Grinch — I would hope. But, the execution isn’t there.
The Ugly
Injuries racked up quickly on Saturday night with several key players needing help off the field. Trey Sermon and Adrian Ealy are the most recognizable names failing to return to action. We should know more after evaluations are completed and announcements are made early next week.