NORMAN — As the 11th-ranked Oklahoma Sooners gear up to face No. 4 Alabama on Saturday in Tuscaloosa, there is a pressing question about the availability of R Mason Thomas. However, the Sooners appear to be in a strong position at defensive end regardless of his status.
The depth along Oklahoma”s defensive line, particularly at the defensive end position, has grown significantly over the course of the season. A prime example of this development is Danny Okoye, a redshirt freshman. Although Okoye has played a limited role thus far, with just 67 defensive snaps in eight games, his contributions are becoming increasingly impactful. He recorded a crucial sack against Tennessee two weeks ago, helping limit the Volunteers to a field goal after they threatened to score.
“He”s really hungry,” said OU coach Brent Venables about Okoye. “He”s got a ton of energy, loves to be coached, and shows up every day with a willingness to go to work. What you saw was just a small snapshot; we see him every day. He has a chance to have a great future.”
Thomas, the veteran leader of the Sooners” defensive front and a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award, suffered a leg injury during his 71-yard fumble return for a touchdown against Tennessee. He has logged over 57% of the team”s defensive plays this season. While Venables did not provide an update on Thomas during his weekly press conference, he acknowledged the team would miss Thomas should he be unable to play. Nonetheless, the group is prepared to step up in his absence.
Marvin Jones Jr. and Taylor Wein have been key contributors, combining for ten starts this season, with Jones starting six games and Wein four, including a game against Auburn when Thomas was suspended for the first half due to a targeting ejection. “That”s just what we prepare for,” Wein stated regarding the potential absence of Thomas. “We practice — everyone. If you”re on the bus, you”re going to practice and prepare like a starter. That”s the standard here.”
In addition to Okoye”s recent improvements, junior Adepoju Adebawore has also stepped up. Adebawore made critical tackles in the third quarter against Tennessee, contributing to a crucial stop that led to a punt. “He”s becoming a great player — consistent, high energy, high motor, physical,” Wein noted about Adebawore. “He”s come a long way.” With 182 defensive snaps, Adebawore ranks fourth among the defensive ends.
The progress made by both Okoye and Adebawore provides the Sooners with a viable chance to maintain an effective pass rush against the Crimson Tide, particularly in a game that holds significant weight for Oklahoma”s playoff aspirations. “Coach Miguel Chavis has done a great job,” Venables remarked. “Danny”s worked hard and improved from his foundation to where he is now.” He described Okoye as “disruptive” and “explosive.”
“He works extremely hard and actively seeks coaching,” Wein added. “He approaches older players for guidance on game plans and strategies. Danny is intelligent and talented, so we are confident he will rise to the occasion.”
