Keys to Victory for the Oklahoma Sooners vs. the Tennessee Volunteers
As the Oklahoma Sooners prepare to face off against the Tennessee Volunteers this weekend, both teams are looking to solidify their standings in a competitive season. Here’s a breakdown of the keys to victory for the Sooners as they take on the Volunteers.
Utilize the Passing Game
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The Sooners will be returning two of their top receivers on the depth chart this week in Nic Anderson and Andrel Anthony. Purdue transfer Deion Burks has gotten a majority of the attention in the first couple of weeks, but adding Anderson and Anthony will help spread out the defense. Starting QB, Jackson Arnold, even mentioned in an interview earlier this week how excited he was to have Nic Anderson back out on the field. The passing attack has not been extremely effective, but the Sooners will need to find ways to push the ball down the field utilizing the passing game against an explosive Tennessee offense. Tennessee's secondary is possibly the weakest unit of their defense, but they are helped, many times, by the explosive defensive front, which will be hard for this banged up Oklahoma offensive line to slow down.
Establish the Run
While the passing game is vital, the ground game is equally important. Oklahoma needs to establish a solid running attack led by their running backs, Gavin Sawchuck, Jovantae Barnes, and Taylor Tatum. A strong performance from the offensive line to open up lanes can help balance the offense, keeping the Volunteers’ defense guessing. The concern there is whether this offensive line will be able to hold their own against a strong defensive line that Tennessee boasts. Their work will definitely be cut out for them to help boost this running game in a battle.
Defensive Discipline
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Tennessee's offense thrives on explosive plays, so Oklahoma's defense must maintain discipline. This includes sound tackling and sticking to their assignments, especially in the secondary. Linebackers will need to be attentive to play-action and not bite on fakes, while the defensive backs should focus on limiting big plays. Creating turnovers could swing momentum, so opportunistic defense will be critical. Linebacker Danny Stutsman has been one of the best in the country in helping his defense stop the run, but will they be able to do it at a high level against running back Dylan Sampson and quarterback Nico Iamaleava who has speed and agility at his position? It will be the first true test to tell if this defense has improved as much as fans have hoped.
Special Teams Excellence
In close games, special teams can make all the difference. The Sooners need to ensure they are sound in coverage, make smart decisions on returns, and convert field goals when needed. Kicking and punting can swing momentum, so a strong performance in this phase of the game will be vital. Not that the Sooners want to see their punter on the field, but punter Luke Elzinga has helped the defense with his punting skills this season. Elzinga has put the ball inside the 20 yard line 8 times this season on 17 total punts. Tyler Keltner has also helped Oklahoma on special teams kicking 5 for 6 on the year for field goal attempts. He has seemed to be an improvement to what the Sooners had a season ago.
Stay Composed Under Pressure
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Both teams will feel the intensity of this matchup. The Sooners have the incredible crowd that will be packing the Palace On The Prairie on Saturday night, but the intensity of this matchup will be pressure that they will have to fight by themselves. Veteran leadership from players like Danny Stutsman, Billy Bowman, and others will need to help guide the team. This will be the first true road test for RS Freshman QB Nico Iamaleava. How will the environment affect him in this game?
Conclusion
As the Oklahoma Sooners face the Tennessee Volunteers, executing these keys to victory will be paramount. By leveraging their strengths and addressing potential weaknesses, the Sooners can enhance their chances of coming away with a crucial win. Oklahoma comes into this game as a 7 point underdog. Will the Sooners come away with the upset? Fans can expect an exciting showdown filled with talent, strategy, and the relentless spirit of College Football.
