Crimson Countdown: No. 3 Robert Spears-Jennings
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. 3 Robert Spears-Jennings
2022 stats: 15 tackles (six solo), .5 tackle for loss.
2023 outlook:
Spears-Jennings flashed promise in 2022 in spare time. He even looked ready for a breakout before an injury in the spring slowed his progress. The Sooners sophomore is a physical defender who was a wide receiver in high school and, as such, has some natural ball skills.
He’s got a great frame and the Sooners clearly want to see more of him this season to see where he can fit into the overall plans. In a safety group that figures to lose multiple key pieces heading into 2024, Spears-Jennings can lay the ground work this year.
2023 safety outlook
Oklahoma welcomes a couple newcomers at safety, with the additions of Texas Tech transfer Reggie Pearson and five-star true freshman Peyton Bowen. Pearson is expected to be an immediate contributor, starting at Texas Tech the past two seasons. But Bowen could find himself on the field early in his career, as he’s already proven he’s an elite talent. Junior Billy Bowman is expected to start again this season, after starting 16 games the past two seasons. Senior Key Lawrence also returns, having started eight games the past two seasons. But he’ll have to battle Pearson, Bowman and others for a starting spot.
