Perhaps OU’s deepest position this season will be at defensive end, where Jeremy Beal and Auston English have already proven to be all-Big 12 players and sophomore Frank Alexander is coming off a breakout season. OU also has R.J. Washington, who was one of the top recruits in the nation a year ago, coming off a redshirt season.
Defensive ends coach Chris Wilson said the competition for the starting spots is as brisk as he’s seen.
“Right now the guy who is standing out as much as anybody is Jeremy Beal. He’s playing really smart,” Wilson said. “It’s competitive. He’s the only guy I could say right now is really a starter.
“Auston is still competing right now as well as Frank. The competition is really still going.”
By the end of last season, Beal, English and Alexander rotated between the two spots and all three were often on the field in passing situations. Wilson said the emergence of Washington could create a true four-man rotation this season.
“He’s playing with a lot more confidence than he did a year ago,” Wilson said of Washington. “He had the label of being the top player and that’s a lot of pressure for a young guy.
“Now he’s had some reps and some time in the weight room. He’s turning into a good football player.”
Offense
wins in the night
OU used part of Wednesday night’s practice to scrimmage. Referees were brought in for the workout that was closed to public.
Defensive tackle Gerald McCoy and other defenders said the offense came away with the victory.
“I can admit it. We’re taught to admit our faults and stand up and be a man. They (the offense) got us in the end,” McCoy said. “That helps us. Go against a speedy offense, no huddle with a lot of good players helps us (to get) better in the end.”
Trying to be a
coach on the field
OU’s 2009 recruiting class included five defensive backs. Cornerback Dominique Franks said he’s doing what he can to coach them up during the preseason.
“We’re helping each other out,” Franks said. “A couple of years ago I was a freshman. You have to be able to look to the upperclassmen that’s been here to help out.
“Me and B.J. (cornerback Brian Jackson) and (safeties) Quinton Carter and Sam Proctor are doing what we can to help those guys because we’ve been there.”
Take a look
Fans can get their first glimpse of the Sooners 6 tonight at the OU Rugby Fields. The first hour of the team’s practice will be open to the public. Seating will be available on the south side of the practice fields. Cameras are not permitted.
John Shinn
366-3536
jshinn@normantranscript.com
