The discussions of Oklahoma’s impending demise have been vastly overstated. The Sooners will not have discussions about being back or on the way back because they have never left.
While the situation was in question during the coaching change, the Oklahoma Sooners have settled in nicely with a renewed energy and optimism about the future of the program.
Yes, Lincoln Riley helped the Sooners win six Big 12 championships as both an offensive coordinator and head coach. However, doubt was beginning to creep in with two-loss seasons each of the last two years.
The Oklahoma Sooners still have questions as they head into their first spring under Brent Venables. The questions facing Venables are the same that would have faced Riley had he stayed. Namely, how does Oklahoma replace 12 starters.
Venables and offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby found several answers in the transfer portal: Dillon Gabriel, McKade Mettauer and Jeffery Johnson. Though Mettauer and Johnson will have to earn their roles, they’re well-positioned to start for the Oklahoma Sooners. Jonah Laulu and Trey Morrison look to be in line for serious playing time as well.
As during the Riley era, Venables made use of the transfer portal and found several players that will have a big impact on the Oklahoma Sooners in 2022.
Steve Lassan of Athlon Sports ranked each of the transfer classes in the Big 12 and the Oklahoma Sooners came out on top. Let’s take a look at the rankings.