We have reached the midpoint of my FBS preseason Top 10 countdown. The final team before my Top 5, coming in at No. 6:
6. Oklahoma Sooners
2011 Record: 10-3 (6-3 Big 12)
Bowl Game: Defeated Iowa 31-14 in Insight Bowl
Overview: Oklahoma has always been considered one of the major players in the Big 12 Conference, and 2012 will be no different. Even with the loss of All-American wide receiver Ryan Broyles, the Sooners expect to once again have an explosive air attack behind quarterback Landry Jones. If coach Bob Stoops and company want to make a serious run for the National title the defense must improve, particularly in the secondary which will face major tests in a conference that loves to air it out. Even with the uncertainty on defense, Oklahoma can score with anyone in the country so expect another impressive season in Norman, Okla.
Offensive Player to Watch: Landry Jones (Sr.) – Quarterback
Oklahoma’s all-time passing leader will be back at it again in 2012, hoping to add to his impressive resume. Jones has passed for at least 3,000 yards and 25 touchdowns in each of his three years as a starter and you can expect similar numbers in his final collegiate season. It’s no secret that the Sooners’ offense will only be as effective as Jones (in 3 losses in 2011 Jones passed for 5 TDs and 4 INTs). Though he won’t have Ryan Broyles, his favorite target, in 2012 Jones will still sling the ball all over the place.
Defensive Player to Watch: Tony Jefferson (Jr.) – Defensive back
After posting impressive numbers in 2011, Tony Jefferson has the potential to be one of the breakout defensive stars in the country. The junior had a great sophomore campaign totaling 74 tackles, seven and a half tackles for loss, four and a half sacks, and four interceptions. The hybrid safety/linebacker is extremely versatile and gives defensive coordinator Mike Stoops a lot of flexibility in regards to where he can place him. Jefferson has the potential to be as vital to Oklahoma’s defense as Landry Jones is to the Sooners’ offense – he is that explosive.
Key Games: October 13 vs. Texas (Game in Dallas, TX), November 17 @ West Virginia, December 1 @ TCU
2012 Prediction: 11-1 (8-1 Big 12)
Wins: UTEP, Florida A&M, Kansas State, Texas Tech, Texas, Kansas, Notre Dame, Iowa State, Baylor, West Virginia, Oklahoma State
Losses: TCU
Greg Romagna can be reached at [email protected].
