3 Defensive keys as the Oklahoma Sooners vs. Tulane Green Wave

The defense faces its first test of the year in the Tulane Green Wave. Here are the defensive keys to the game.

Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Corral the ground game

Quarterback Michael Pratt had great success last year. His 20 touchdown passes were more than any other true freshman in the country. But he threw for under 200 yards in six of Tulane’s 10 games last year. I say take away the running game and force the pressures on his throwing shoulder.

Pratt was active on the ground in 2020, rushing 115 times for eight touchdowns. Eliminating him from the equation allows the Sooners to focus on Cameron Carroll and Stephon Huderson. At 225 pounds, Carroll has the powerful frame needed to soften up OU’s interior defense. Huderson is Tulane’s speed back that accounted for more than 65 yards per game last season.