Sooner Linebackers

The Sooners' linebackers will be going through a crash course this fall. OU returns only one experienced linebacker in starter Ryan Reynolds. Barring injury, (we'll keep our fingers crossed) Reynolds should be the solid foundation and leader the Sooners desperately need in a very green unit. Austin Box, who will miss the season opener due to surgery, should contribute immediately. Box fits the mold of previous Sooner linebacker greats. After a few games under his belt, Box should be playing very well by mid-season.


RYAN REYNOLDS

A story I'm looking forward so watching develop at linebacker this year is the move of Keenan Clayton to outside linebacker. A converted safety, Clayton possesses the speed to cover receivers and tight ends, providing OU valuable pass coverage in a pass-dominated league. This switch reminds me of the move of Lewis Baker to linebacker a couple years ago.


AUSTIN BOX

Behind these three LBs, OU will rely on JUCO transfers Mike Balogun and J.R. Bryant for depth, as well as Travis Lewis, Brandon Crow and Lamont Robinson. I predict Sooner fans will see the full array of linebackers during the non-conference games until the coaching staff finds the right three guys.

OU Notebook...tulsaworld.com

Reynolds' knees a concern...tulsaworld.com