Tag: Nik Bonitto

Pair of Sooners make 2021 CFB ‘freaks’ list, Nik Bonitto snubbed

Two Oklahoma Sooners land on Bruce Feldman’s 2021 top 101 college football “freaks” list, while Nik Bonitto was notably absent.

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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Oklahoma Sooners’ top 12 moments in football from the Big 12 era

With migration to the SEC on the horizon, take a stroll down memory lane with the top 12 moments from the Oklahoma Sooners time in the Big 12.

One of the best things about sports, and college football, in particular, are the memories it creates for the fan that last a lifetime. In the Oklahoma Sooner’s dominance of the Big 12 since its inception, they’ve created quite a few memories.

With migration to the Southeastern Conference on the horizon, the Sooners’ reign at the top of the Big 12 will be concluding. Collecting 14 Big 12 Championships, the Oklahoma Sooners have created quite a few memorable moments along the way.

And as their future is headed to the SEC, let’s take a look back at the top 12 moments from the Oklahoma Sooners time in the Big 12 Conference.

Trio of Sooners crack 247Sports’ top 50 entering 2021

Three Sooners land on 247Sports’ top 50 CFB ranking entering 2021

The 2021 college football season is fast approaching. It will not be long before parking lots are flooded with tailgates and stands are crowded with exhilarated fans. At the inception of each new season, preseason coverage brings forth evaluation rankings. Which players are slotted to be the best in the country when fall rolls around?

Based on a myriad of factors, including positional value, career production, and proven distinction, 247Sports’ announced their top 50 players in college football entering 2021. Three Oklahoma Sooners fell among the elite compilation of names: quarterback Spencer Rattler (3), edge Nik Bonitto (16), and wide receiver Marvin Mims (35).

All three ignite both sides of the football for OU.

Spencer Rattler took the college football world by storm in 2020 as a redshirt freshman. He mesmerized with an effortless release, rare off-platform throws, and tight-window accuracy. The 6-1, 205-pound signal-caller threw for 3,031 yards and 28 touchdowns last season. He completed 67% of his passes and averaged 9.6 yards per attempt in his first year under center.

The Arizona native is the consensus Heisman favorite. With a full year/offseason program under his belt with Lincoln Riley’s tutelage in Norman, his numbers will only improve this upcoming season. Rattler’s ability to create outside of structure is jaw-dropping, and OU’s quarterback will be striving to solidify his high draft status on Saturdays.

Marvin Mims is a standout in his supporting cast. He led the Sooners as a true freshman in 2020 with 610 yards and nine touchdowns on 37 receptions. Mims became the first receiver in OU history to earn FWAA All-America status, and his nine scores established an Oklahoma freshman record. No. 17 consistently made big plays in OU’s vertical attack and was Rattler’s go-to target downfield. His speed and body control make him a threat when he lines up in the slot or out wide. He is poised to make a leap in his second year.

On the defensive side of the football, Nik Bonitto wreaks havoc from the edge. His power and speed combination from a two-point stance is lethal. Defensive coordinator Alex Grinch has significantly improved the Sooners defense the last couple of years with a focus on physicality and takeaways. The revamped unit begins with Bonitto. His production in the trenches has helped free up opportunities for the second and third levels of OU’s ‘Speed D.’

Bonitto’s explosion from the RUSH LB role earned him the nation’s best pass rush grade (93.5), pass-rush win rate (28.5%), and the top pressure rate (25.7%), according to PFF. In 2020, he accumulated 11.5 tackles for loss and nine sacks in 10 games. He consistently collapsed pockets and will be hungry for more in 2021.

Sooners Nik Bonitto, Isaiah Thomas land on Chuck Bednarik Award watch list

Oklahoma’s Nik Bonitto and Isaiah Thomas named to Chuck Bednarik Award watch list.

It is that time of year again. At the cusp of the 2021 college football season, watch list season begins commemorating some of the playmakers between the hash marks. The Oklahoma Sooners are once again in contention for the national title, and several players donning Crimson and Cream will likely receive accolades for their accomplishments on the gridiron this upcoming season.

Both Nik Bonitto and Isaiah Thomas were named to the Chuck Bednarik watch list, the Maxwell Football Club announced on Monday. The Chuck Bednarik Award is presented annually to the outstanding defensive player in college football.

The Bednarik Award watch list features 90 candidates on defense. The winner will be announced during the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show on December 9, 2021. The award has been presented each year dating back to 1995 and is given in honor of Chuck Bednarik, a prolific player from the University of Pennsylvania. He was a member of both the College Football Hall of Fame (class of ’69) and the NFL Hall of Fame (class of ’67).

Nik Bonitto has made his mark with the Sooners and across the college football landscape. He is the top returning edge rusher in 2021. Last season he notched 10.5 tackles for loss, 8.0 sacks, two pass breakups, and a team-high 10 quarterback hurries.

From a two-point stance in Alex Grinch’s scheme, Bonitto’s power and speed combination off the edge are lethal. Following his impressive campaign, Bonitto was credited by PFF with the nation’s top pressure rate (25.7%), pass rush grade (93.5), and pass-rush win rate (28.5%). He helped turn Grinch’s defensive front into one of the most formidable, along with Isaiah Thomas.

Thomas played both defensive end and defensive tackle last season and was rated by PFF at the conclusion of 2020 as the nation’s No. 74 overall player. He led the Sooners in sacks (8.5) and tackles for loss (13.0). In addition, he notched 32 tackles, two fumble recoveries, a forced fumble, eight quarterback hurries, and two pass breakups. Thomas helped set the tone in the trenches.

Both are key cornerstones in Grinch’s scheme and will be players to keep an eye on in 2021.

Where the Oklahoma Sooners rank in Athlon Sports full FBS rankings

A look at where the Oklahoma Sooners rank in the full 130 FBS team rankings from Athlon Sports.

The Oklahoma Sooners are just a month away from fall camp, which means we are that much closer to football season. Lincoln Riley has unfinished business this season. After falling to 1-2 after the first few games in 2020, the Sooners rattled off eight straight to finish 9-2.

This year Riley might just have his most talented roster to date. It also might be his best chance to get that elusive College Football Playoff semifinal victory to get into the championship game. Led by Spencer Rattler, the Sooners are viewed as one of the favorites for the upcoming season.

Athlon Sports recently ranked all 130 FBS schools for the upcoming season, and Oklahoma was inside the top five.

No. 3: Oklahoma Sooners

Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

OU was ranked just behind the Alabama Crimson Tide and Clemson Tigers, two teams that are annual participants in the CFP. Both teams are rolling with highly-touted five-star quarterbacks entering their first season as a starter. Rattler has one season under his belt. The Sooners ranked just ahead of the Ohio State Buckeyes and Georgia Bulldogs, who finished the top five.

The Sooners have claimed six Big 12 titles in a row, and coach Lincoln Riley’s team is a heavy favorite to win the league crown once again in 2021. Oklahoma is led by an explosive offense but an improving defense gives the program a better chance to win a playoff game – or perhaps something bigger – this postseason.

A look at the strengths and concerns for the Oklahoma Sooners offensive and defensive units in 2021. Plus where the rest of the Big 12 Conference ranks on Athlon Sports’ top 130 rankings.

Oklahoma Sooners selected to Pro Football Focus’ All-Big 12 Team

Pro Football Focus released their preseason All-Big 12 team and the Oklahoma Sooners were heavily featured with nine selections in all.

As we get closer to the start of the 2021 season, major media publications will begin releasing their preseason awards and all-conference teams. The Oklahoma Sooners figure to be featured quite prominently on many All-American and All-Big 12 squads. And that was the case as Pro Football Focus released their All-Big 12 team.

In all nine Sooners made the squad, headlined by quarterback Spencer Rattler.

Can Nik Bonitto build off stellar 2020 Season for the Oklahoma Sooners?

Nik Bonitto is one of the top returning players in all of college football, can he get off to a hot start in 2021?

The 2020 season was full of highlight performances from the Oklahoma Sooners. The defense experienced a breakout season in their second year under Alex Grinch’s leadership. At every level of the defense, we witnessed improved play all the way around. One player that saw a huge leap in production from the 2019 season and is poised for another big year is Rush Linebacker (edge rusher) Nik Bonitto.

Bonitto came into the 2020 season with just 3.5 sacks to his resume in 15 games played over the course of his true and redshirt freshmen seasons in 2018 and 2019. In 2020, however, his sack total jumped to nine in 10 games. That averages out to 0.9 sacks per game. For a shortened season, that’s fantastic production rushing the passer. Had the Sooners played their typical 13 games or so, that would project to 11.7 sacks in a season.

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It’s no wonder Bonitto was listed among 247Sports’ ranking of College Football’s 10 most feared defensive players. The guy is an absolute beast.

His ability to win with speed and power off the edge, play the run at a high level, and drop into coverage makes Nik Bonitto one of the most dangerous and versatile weapons in college football.

He performed well in the biggest games of the season for the Sooners. Bonitto totaled seven sacks in games against Kansas State, Texas, Oklahoma State, Iowa State (Big 12 Championship Game), and Florida (Cotton Bowl). The only big game he was kept off the sack ledge was in the first game against Iowa State. But he rebounded to come up with two sacks in the Red River Rivalry game the following week.

Alex Grinch and the Oklahoma Sooners defense will need Nik Bonitto to rise to the occasion as the premier pass rusher in college football. Expectations will continue to rise for Bonitto as the Sooners build off of an improved defensive performance. Now he’s the guy that offensive coordinators will be looking to slow down on the pass rush. As much as defensive football relies on all 11 guys doing their job, teams have to have guys that can take over a game. If the Sooners want to reach their goals of contending for and winning a national championship this season, Nik Bonitto will need to be a big part of it.

Three ‘ifs’ for the Oklahoma Sooners in 2021 to overcome to become title contenders

What is standing in the way of the Oklahoma Sooners being title contenders in 2021?

We all know what the goal is for every college football team when they take the field in early September. Each team is looking to become title contenders for the 2021-22 college football season. For some teams, those dreams and aspirations are a lot more achievable. For instance, the Oklahoma Sooners are closer than their two rivals in the Oklahoma State Cowboys and Texas Longhorns. Well on paper anyway, nothing is known until the teams actually strap on the helmets and go to war on Saturdays.

Oklahoma returns a vast majority of their offensive explosions with Spencer Rattler at quarterback, wide receivers Marvin Mims, Theo Wease, Jadon Haselwood, tight ends Austin Stogner, and Jeremiah Hall. In the backfield, Kennedy Brooks returns to take back his role as the starting running back. The only real question surrounding the offensive line after losing Creed Humphrey and Adrian Ealy to the NFL draft. Impact transfer Wanya Morris will help lock down the edge of the offensive line. Andrew Raym might just be the guy to replace Humphrey.

The Sooners lost Ronnie Perkins and a trio of cornerbacks that will add some pressure to that unit. However, Isaiah Thomas and Nik Bonitto were impact players at the position. Adding back in Jalen Redmond, Marcus Stripling should help that unit. In the secondary, D.J. Graham and Woodi Washington look to man the outside cornerback spots. The nickel cornerback might just be freshman Billy Bowman. They are a unit to keep an eye on.

ESPN recently came up with three “if’s” (link requires subscription) that could mean the Sooners are contenders in 2021.

First up the running back situation

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Oklahoma’s national championship optimism starts with the defensive line

The Sooners national championship hopes will rest on the shoulders of the defensive line.

There are high expectations for the Oklahoma Sooners in 2021. They have as high a ceiling for success as anyone in the country, including Alabama and Clemson. Lincoln Riley and the Sooners have been on the verge of National Championship contention for several years, but one thing was always missing.

A defense.

The offense we know is going to be good. That’s the standard for the Sooners heading into Riley’s fifth season as the head coach. But they’ve been held back each year by a defense that has struggled to get stops and create turnovers. That started trending in the right direction in 2020 as the Sooners defense began holding up their end of the bargain.

Now, despite the losses of Ronnie Perkins, Tre Brown, and Tre Norwood, there is a ton of optimism about this Oklahoma Sooners defense. That’s because the defensive line looks to be one of the best the Oklahoma Sooners have ever had.

Though he’s listed as a linebacker by most, Nik Bonitto operates as more of an edge rusher, and his nine sacks in 2020 led the Oklahoma Sooners. He was college football’s most productive pass rusher, according to Pro Football Focus.

Isaiah Thomas had a breakout season in 2020 with 7.5 sacks for the Sooners and is as productive against the run as he is as a pass rusher. With his ability to play on the edge and inside on passing downs, Thomas is as important of a defensive player as the Sooners have. Legal issues notwithstanding, he should have another great year for Oklahoma.

Bonitto and Thomas will be aided significantly by an improved interior defensive line. Jalen Redmond’s will be huge for the Sooners, and LaRon Stokes was an underrated part of the rotation last year. Perrion Winfrey is on many All-American watch lists.

Throw in potential contributions from Freshman Ethan Downs. OU Insider Recruiting Analyst Parker Thune mentioned on the Locked On Sooners Podcast as the incoming player with the best chance to contribute in year one.

“Ethan Downs is going to be an impact player for Oklahoma on the defensive side of the football this season. He’s a guy that my colleague Brandon Drumm and I have been pinpointing as a potential day one impact contributor for months and years now. It’s really no secret that he was pound for pound the most gifted in the state of Oklahoma in the 2021 class… Downs is a beast of an athlete. The absolute hardest worker you’ll ever encounter. Loves the weight room. Loves competition. Loves to just punch someone in the mouth. The way he just explodes off the edge and can dominate any opponent in the trenches is remarkable. He’s earned a lot of buzz early on. A lot of love from the coaching staff. A lot of love from his teammates… He’s just a classic old school, smashmouth style of football player.”

If the Oklahoma Sooners can get a pass rush off the edge from someone other than Bonitto and Thomas, it will pay huge dividends for Alex Grinch and the Oklahoma Sooners defense.

For the Oklahoma Sooners to get where they want to go in 2021, they’ll need the defensive side of the ball to be as good as many think it will be. The offense will be good, but as we’ve seen with this team in years past when they get to the College Football Playoff, a good offense isn’t enough to get you through to the National Championship game.

And while there might be questions at certain spots on the defense (cornerback), the Sooners look ready to contend with the guys they’ll deploy along the defensive front.

CFN previews the Oklahoma Sooners 2021 football season

The full season preview for the Oklahoma Sooners in the 2021 college football season.

The Oklahoma Sooners are just 73 days away from the start of the 2021 college football season. Last year the Oklahoma football team led by first-year starter Spencer Rattler missed out on the College Football Playoffs for the first time in four seasons. The team was knocked off the fast track to the CFP by early-season losses to Iowa State and Kansas State. The ISU loss was avenged in the Big 12 Championship game but it was a little too late as they would have to settle for a Cotton Bowl clash with the Florida Gators.

In the previous three trips into the CFP, Lincoln Riley and company drop those semifinal games to three separate Southeastern Conference opponents. This year might be the best shot for the Sooners as they have a loaded team on both sides of the ball. Not to mention they have the 2021 Heisman Trophy front-runner leading them into battle.

Our colleagues at College Football News have released their full season preview for the Sooners in 2021. Sooners Wire breaks it all down.