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The time for talk will soon be over. Oklahoma’s September 4th season opener versus Tulane continues to creep closer and closer. But until then, each passing day brings college football fans another power ranking, preseason poll, or all-regional award list to wade through.
Today, two Sooners were named to ESPN’s Preseason All-America Team. While this accolade can’t help Oklahoma play better on the football field, it helps validate what more and more of the college football world keeps saying: The 2021 Sooners are deep, well-balanced, and a ligament threat to the national title.
Spencer Rattler was handed the keys to Lincoln Riley’s offense during one of the most turbulent seasons in college football history. Without the benefit of a full schedule, OU’s signal-caller still threw for 28 touchdowns and 3000 yards in an offense that averaged more points (41.8) than anyone else in the Big 12.
If anything, Rattler has too many weapons heading into 2021. He returns his favorite targets Marvin Mims and Theo Wease while welcoming Mike Williams and halfback Eric Gray through the transfer portal.
With an improved defense, continuity along the offensive line, and the return of his favorite pass catchers, there is little reason to doubt him or his offense this season.
One of the reasons the Sooners defense continues to improve is the other player from Oklahoma selected to the All-American team; Rush linebacker Nik Bonitto.
Bonitto burst onto the scene as a dominant edge rusher, collecting nine sacks for a Sooners defense that continues to show year over year improvement under Alex Grinch. Bonitto comes into 2021 looking to build on his 2020 season, hopefully leading the Sooners back to the College Football Playoff to contend for their first national championship in more than 20 years.
Bonitto’s combination of size, speed, and strength make him difficult for even the best offensive tackles to block off the edge. Bonitto is also incredibly difficult to block in the running game. His athleticism and effort make him one of the best defenders in college football.
If the Sooners are as good as people think they’ll be, Rattler and Bonitto will be on All-America lists at the end of the season and could be joined by several of their teammates as well.