Buzz generates and narratives form as the 2021 college football season nears on players with rare athletic traits. The guys that mesmerize on the field with elite physical ability. In Bruce Feldman’s 2021 ranking, he featured 101 players that are “freak” athletes in nature. Typically, the annual list consists of 50 players being showcased, but this year the listing hit the 101 marker.
Two Oklahoma Sooners were among the prestigious listing, left tackle Anton Harrison and linebacker Brian Asamoah.
Harrison made the list for his deceiving speed for a 309-pound lineman. Maxing out at “19.5 MPH on the GPS tracker,” according to Feldman. Harrison only allowed one sack in 2020 as a true freshman per PFF and though he may not start, will have a role in Bill Bedenbaugh’s offensive line come the fall.
Asamoah made the list for his impressive strength, squatting “500 pounds for five reps,” per Bruce Feldman.
He led Oklahoma with 66 tackles last season and notched four pass breakups and five quarterback hurries in nine starts.
Asamoah possesses the instincts and twitchiness for the WILL linebacker role in Alex Grinch’s defense. Perhaps the most notable element to his game, effective execution of responsibilities over the A gap, limiting ball carriers.
Both players are often overlooked on Oklahoma’s roster despite their prominent roles. No surprise to see Harrison and Asamoah on the compilation, but shock permeates on a player’s name not mentioned- that of rush linebacker Nik Bonitto.
Bonitto, an explosive edge rusher, has made a significant impact in transforming OU’s defense from one of the worst to one of the most formidable across the nation.
He amassed 10.5 tackles for loss in 2020 and a team-high 10 quarterback hurries. Bonitto was credited with the nation’s top pressure rate (25.7%), pass rush grade (93.5) and pass rush win-rate (28.5%) per Pro Football Focus.
Bonitto has established himself as not only the most lethal edge defender in college football, but has earned his place among the program’s legendary defenders.
The 6-3, 240-pound rush specialist’s power and speed off the edge are a dangerous combination. He is the type of hybrid linebacker that NFL defensive coordinators covet. Bonitto has great acceleration and change of direction ability. His versatility as a coverage threat and disruptive pass rusher should have garnered a place on Feldman’s esteemed list.
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