Brent Venables provides updates on Oklahoma injuries, Justin Harrington’s future
Oklahoma picked up its fifth win of the season on Saturday. Nonetheless, the Sooners’ success has come with a cost.
In Oklahoma’s win over SMU in Week 2, defensive back Justin Harrington suffered a torn ACL. Following OU’s 50-20 victory over Iowa State, head coach Brent Venables provided an update on Harrington’s condition.
“Justin Harrington had ACL surgery yesterday morning. I hate that for Justin, but he’s gonna try to get another year,” Venables said. “It looks like that’ll likely take place, but that has to go through its process after the season. I hate that for him. I bragged on Justin.
“Justin is a great leader. If he stood up here right now in front of a mic, y’all would just melt with his perspective, his toughness and his love for his teammates. He’s a special guy, and he’ll be a big part of helping us lead and encourage our guys and bring out the best in them.”
Harrington wanted to be on the field. Despite suffering the injury early against SMU, the redshirt fifth-year simply tossed on a knee brace and fought through the pain in the second half. His efforts were worth it.
Harrington snagged an interception in SMU’s final drive, sealing the game. In two contests, Harrington recorded six tackles. While Oklahoma has gone relatively unscathed since Harrington’s injury, Sooners’ fans held their breath again on Saturday.
Brent Venables updates other Oklahoma injuries
Linebacker Danny Stutsman and defensive back Gentry Williams both went down with injuries in the game. After the game, Venables provided an update on their condition.
“They’re good. They’re both good.”
Oklahoma can’t afford to lose the pair. The team’s defense has been pivotal this season, giving up just 309.5 yards per game, ranking No. 33 in the country. After going 6-7 last season, Venables is proud of his team this year.
“Up to this point, we’ve flipped the script on a lot of the measurables that we were not very good at a year ago,” Venables said. “We still have a long way to go, but there’s been incremental improvement. I’d be a fool not to recognize that and let our players know how much we appreciate them and the work they’ve put in. None of us are satisfied, and we know that there’s going to be tougher challenges here down the road. Things don’t get easier as you climb the mountain.”
Venables is right about that. The next step on the mountain will be the most difficult yet. On Saturday, Oklahoma will take on Texas in the Red River Showdown at noon ET. Both teams enter the game undefeated. Only one will emerge will leave with a flawless record.