Availability Report: OU linebacker Kobie McKinzie listed as questionable vs. Tennessee
The first SEC Availability Report for Week 10 was released Wednesday, and it includes a key veteran for Oklahoma.
Sooners’ linebacker Kobie McKinzie opens the week as “questionable” to play against Tennessee this Saturday (6:30 p.m. CT, ABC).
OU wide receiver Keontez Lewis, who has missed the last two games, is listed as doubtful. So is offensive tackle Derek Simmons, who missed last week’s loss to Ole Miss after suffering a concussion in practice.
Along with McKinzie, running backs Jovantae Barnes and Taylor Tatum, cornerback Gentry Williams and offensive lineman Logan Howland are listed as questionable.
Troy Everett, Jacob Sexton and Jake Taylor remain out, as expected.
According to the SEC Availability Report, players listed as questionable as “uncertain to play due to injury or condition.” Players listed as doubtful are “unlikely to play due to significant concerns.” Players who are probable are “likely to play, barring any setbacks.”
McKinzie, who has started all eight games for the Sooners, left early last week against Ole Miss due to a groin injury. OU coach Brent Venables said Monday the Sooners are “hopeful” McKinzie will play against Tennessee. If McKinzie is unable to play, the Sooners will lean heavily on Owen Heinecke, who played over 60 snaps against the Rebels in his absense.
For Tennessee, linebacker Arion Carter — who missed last week’s game against Kentucky — is questionable. Rickey Gibson, Travis Smith Jr. and Jermod McCoy have been ruled out.
Additional availability reports will be released Thursday, Friday and 90 minutes before kickoff.