Crimson Countdown: No. 27 Gavin Sawchuk
The Crimson Countdown is officially on for the 2023 Oklahoma football season. It’s the second season under head coach Brent Venables and expectations are high once again. The Sooners are looking to rebound from the uncharacteristic 6-7 season in 2022.
Every day as we get closer to kickoff, SoonerScoop.com will count down the days with you. Starting with No. 99 and working our way to No. 0, we’ll be there every step of the way.
Crimson Countdown: No. 27 Gavin Sawchuk
2022 stats: 17 attempts, 105 yards, 1 touchdown.
2023 outlook: Sawchuk saw action in only two games last season, rushing twice for five yards against TCU and then bursting onto the scene in the bowl game against Florida State. Sawchuk rushed 15 times for 100 yards and a touchdown versus the Seminoles, leaving many hopeful that he can be a star in Oklahoma’s offense.
A four-star running back from Colorado, Sawchuk arrived in Norman with high expectations but didn’t see the field much as a true freshman. He had to wait his turn behind Eric Gray and Jovantae Barnes, who he is expected to split time with this season. Sawchuk is a dynamic back that is one of the fastest players on the team. He could be a nice one-two punch with Barnes, as they showcased in the bowl game, each rushing for 100 yards.
2023 running back outlook
Oklahoma will look to replace last season’s leading rusher Eric Gray, who is now a New York Giant. OU has several options with sophomore Jovantae Barnes and redshirt freshman Gavin Sawchuk as the frontrunners to start. Barnes was Oklahoma’s backup last season, but after suffering a foot injury in spring practice, the door has opene for Sawchuk. Oklahoma also welcomes a pair of true freshman in Daylan Smothers and Kalib Hicks. And don’t count out redshirt senior Marcus Major, who returns for his fifth season in Norman.
