The Oklahoma Sooners have been hit, run over, and backed over by the injury bug to start the 2024 season. They lost another key piece on Monday when Brent Venables revealed that offensive lineman Geirean Hatchett would be out for the season due to a torn biceps.
The offense has been eagerly awaiting the return of standout wide receiver [autotag]Nic Anderson[/autotag] and starting center [autotag]Branson Hickman[/autotag]. During Venables weekly press conference, he shared that there’s no clear picture on a return for either Anderson or Hickman but reiterated they’re improving.
On Hickman, Venables said, “I’m literally not being evasive. I don’t know,” We could use a guy that’s started 34 games.”
Anderson, who had 798 yards and 10 touchdowns on just 38 receptions in 2023, was projected to start for the Sooners in 2024. However, he’s been dealing with a hamstring injury that’s kept him out of the first two weeks of the season.
Hickman, who brought with him a ton of experience from SMU has been battling a high ankle sprain since fall camp. He reaggravated the injury in the week one win over Temple. With Hatchett, Hickman, and fellow veteran interior offensive lineman Troy Everett out against Houston, [autotag]Josh Bates[/autotag] started for the Sooners against the Cougars.
Bates had some good moments but also showed several moments of his youth and inexperience. He was also playing banged up. Venables stated he is playing with one arm.
Bates’ unsportsmanlike conduct penalty in the final minute of the game gave Houston way more time than they would have had when the clock stopped after he ripped off his helmet. He got a lot of experience from which he can continue to develop, but Bates, along with the rest of the offensive line have to be better this week against Tulane.
The Sooners need both Anderson and Hickman back sooner rather than later, but until then the coaching staff has to look into best utilizing the talent that they have available.
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