At the buzzer takeaways: OU defense carries day vs. SMU
There was no other way to say it than OU and its fans were going to learn about the 2023 team with SMU in town.
It wasn’t all smooth all the time, but the Sooners made big-time plays when they had to. The defense and special teams came up huge to help a struggling offense to a 28-11 victory on Saturday evening against the visiting Mustangs.
Some quick takeaways at the buzzer as Brent Venables and crew move to 2-0.
OU passing offense stifled but finds a way
A little head-scratching, no other way to describe it. Coming off an electric offensive passing performance last week, it was not there against SMU. At least for three quarters.
Between protection issues, some drops, Dillon Gabriel and company were unable to find a rhythm all evening. Now they never turned the ball over, but OU only had 88 passing yards through the initial three quarters.
Unlike 2022, though, Gabriel and the offense were able to find a way in the fourth quarter. He had as many passing yards in the final 15 minutes (88) as he did in the first 45.
He also spread the wealth, throwing touchdowns to four different players. Maybe most importantly? Zero turnovers for the second game in a row.
OU was also able to find success on the ground, especially from Tawee Walker. However, it was a very disjointed effort.
Stutsman, defense dominate
Flip it over to the defense, and linebacker Danny Stutsman was the star of the show. He was everywhere. Making stops in the running game. Reading plays to eliminate potential big shots. And even getting a sack.
Stutsman and Key Lawrence combined on easily one of the biggest plays of the game. SMU’s Jaylan Knighton was busting out a big run when Lawrence punched the ball out. Stutsman was quick to recover the fumble.
The defense gave up over 200 yards in the first half but just the three points. It was a steady effort by a unit we knew would be tested.
Stutsman finished with 17 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and a sack.
Justin Harrington iced the game with a late interception.
Bowen makes things happen
One of many reasons why OU was so excited about getting Peyton Bowen was his ability to play special teams. In high school, that meant returning kicks. In college, well, guess that means blocking them.
Bowen blocked a punt in the first quarter to give OU great field position and set up the first score. Gabriel found Andrel Anthony wide open for a 29-yard touchdown on the ensuing drive.
Bowen saw a lot of snaps Saturday as he continues to show he’s just too good to be left off the field. For an offense that was struggling, the blocked kick was exactly what OU needed.
Bowen also had a huge pass breakup on a fourth down with the score 21-11. Gabriel would find Marcus Major for a 27-yard score soon after.
