5 defensive players to watch in Oklahoma’s week 2 matchup with Kent State

As the Oklahoma Sooners prepare to face the Kent State Golden Flashes, here are five players to watch on the defensive side of the ball.

The Oklahoma Sooners got a strong effort from the defensive side of the ball in week one vs. the UTEP Miners. The Sooners held the Miners to less than one yard per carry and 13 points.

The Sooners will look to improve their pass defense, as Gavin Hardison of UTEP had an inspired performance to bounce back from his underwhelming week zero start against UNT. After completing just 46% of his passes against the Mean Green, Hardison came to Norman and completed 62% of his attempts for 244 yards.

The pass rush helped make up for the passing yards allowed as it helped to shut down UTEP scoring drives. The Sooners received a breakout performance from Reggie Grimes with 2.5 sacks, and Danny Stutsman and Billy Bowman led the way in total tackles.

Heading into their week two matchup with Kent State, there are a few players who will be key factors in the outcome, and some we want to see build upon their week one performance.