Nik Bonitto, EDGE
Nik Bonitto is the shining superstar on this Oklahoma defense and games like this are where he shows up the most. His play against the QB run game and zone-read will be a big factor. Nebraska loves to utilize Martinez’s legs on designed runs and in the scramble game. Defending their zone-read will require awareness and athleticism. Two things Nik Bonitto possesses in spades.
Bonitto has the functional strength to hold the edge against the offensive tackles but also the speed to make tackles and bring down Martinez and those running backs in space.
The focus for this week is the starters for Oklahoma. If the starters mentioned play well and they get serviceable play from the back end of the defense, OU should and will pull away in the third quarter and cruise to a win.