Oklahoma Sooners Continue Dominance in Midseason Picks with Rising Stars Gabriel, Stutsman, and Bowen
The Oklahoma Sooners are making waves in college football as they dominate the midseason picks with their exceptional rising stars. Second-year head coach Brent Venables, quarterback Dillon Gabriel, and linebacker Danny Stutsman have emerged as top picks, showcasing their immense talent and contribution to the team’s success. Moreover, strong safety Peyton Bowen, a first-year freshman, has also made a significant impact, solidifying the Sooners’ stronghold in the game.
Coach Venables expressed his satisfaction with the team’s progress, stating that they have improved in every aspect of the game, although they still have room for growth. He highlighted the determination and unity within the team, even though they have a significant number of new players. With trust, respect, and a selfless attitude, the Sooners have created a strong foundation for success.
The Sooners have an illustrious football history, boasting a record 14 Big 12 championships. This season is particularly important as it is their last opportunity to add to this impressive tally before they make the transition to the Southeastern Conference next year, alongside the Texas Longhorns.
With an undefeated record of 6-0, the Sooners are off to an exceptional start for the tenth time since 2000 when Venables was the defensive coordinator for their last national championship victory. Having been part of two national titles during his time with Clemson, Venables returned to Oklahoma last season, determined to lead the team to success. Although his debut as head coach included a disappointing loss to the rival Longhorns, the Sooners showed resilience by losing their subsequent four games last season by only three points.
Among the midseason picks, Dillon Gabriel was the standout choice, being the only unanimous selection. Originally from Hawaii, Gabriel possesses an impressive skill set as the left-handed quarterback. He leads the Big 12 in completion percentage, completing 72% of his passes, with an average of 313 yards per game and 16 touchdowns. Gabriel’s versatility is evident as he also leads the team in rushing touchdowns, displaying his ability to contribute in various areas of the game. He currently ranks fourth nationally with an average of 347.7 total yards per game.
Danny Stutsman, a 6-foot-4, 236-pound linebacker from Florida, has emerged as the leading tackler in the Big 12. He has continued his impressive form from last season, where he topped the conference with 9.6 tackles per game. Stutsman’s 10 1/2 tackles for loss this season already matches his total from the previous year, highlighting his impact on the Sooners’ defense.
Peyton Bowen, a highly regarded five-star recruit and early enrollee at Oklahoma, has quickly established himself as a key player in the team. With 23 tackles, four pass breakups, two blocked punts (one resulting in a safety), and a forced fumble, Bowen has displayed exceptional skills and playmaking ability. His contributions have not gone unnoticed, cementing his position as the top first-year freshman for the Sooners.
While the Sooners reign supreme, other players from different teams have also showcased their talent and potential. Houston’s dual-threat quarterback Donovan Smith has accounted for 29 touchdowns in the past two seasons at Texas Tech. He currently ranks second in the Big 12, trailing only Dillon Gabriel, with an average of 302 total yards per game. Additionally, West Virginia, the only team besides Oklahoma without a Big 12 loss, has been on a winning streak since a season-opening loss to Penn State.
In terms of individual performances, Houston’s Samuel Brown has caught the attention of many with his exceptional receiving skills. Despite playing one game fewer than others, Brown leads the Big 12 in total catches, averaging 6.8 per game, and yards per game, with an average of 103.6.
As the midseason picks unfold, it is evident that Oklahoma is continuing its dominance in college football. With rising stars like Gabriel, Stutsman, and Bowen leading the way, the Sooners are poised for another successful season. However, they will face stiff competition from other talented players in the Big 12 conference. The remaining games will undoubtedly provide thrilling matchups as teams strive to secure victories and establish themselves as forces to be reckoned with in college football.
