Oklahoma-UCF GameDay: Under the Radar

Cayden Green

UCF’s defense isn’t the kind of unit that’s going to cause a lot of havoc for the OU offense. And yet, protecting Dillon Gabriel remains Job One, and growing some teeth for the running game is long overdue. That means adding the true freshman, Cayden Green, to the starting lineup might be the wisest move for Bill Bedenbaugh. Green showed his mettle and his talent against Texas’ 362-pound wrecking ball, T’Vondre Sweat. Now it’s time for him to grow into the role of Bedenbaugh’s starting left guard.

— John Hoover

Da’Jon Terry

UCF’s path to victory in Norman on Saturday starts and ends with its rushing attack. The Knights are third in rushing offense entering the weekend, and have a stable of running backs to stress opposing defenses. But Oklahoma has a space eater at the heart of its defense that can help thwart Gus Malzahn’s plans. Da’Jon Terry, the 6-foot-3, 321-pound defensive tackle, has been a key part of Brent Venables’ defense through six games. Though he only has nine tackles, including two tackles for loss and one quarterback sack, he’s been tough to move and knocks back the interior of offensive lines. With all the pre-snap movement and wrinkles UCF will throw at the OU defense, Terry’s ability to blow up plays before rushing lanes open can help simply things for the Sooners.

— Ryan Chapman

Gavin Freeman

Freeman had one catch against Texas, and his production has been limited through Oklahoma's first six games (11 catches for 62 yards and a touchdown). But that figures to change now that speedy wide receiver Andrel Anthony (27 catches, 429 yards), is out for the season after injuring his knee in the Texas game. Look for Freeman, an elusive runner with the ball in his hands, to get some of of those catches in Anthony's absence.

— Tim Willert

Gavin Sawchuk

Oklahoma is six games into the season and the team is still without a clear starting running back. Clearly, it hasn’t had a huge impact as the team is 6-0 and ranked inside the top six. Down the stretch, though, the Sooners need to be better on the ground and give its backs consistent carries. Right now, it seems like the running back rotation is a game-to-game operation, and it’s time for someone to get going. Tawee Walker has proven to be a solid option and is a strong, physical runner. He will be the perfect back to have in goal line situations and when Oklahoma needs a few yards for a first down. The Sooners also need a home run hitter, though. Gavin Sawchuk is the only running back in the room with breakaway speed and the ability to break off massive gains downfield. He’s gotten a few carries here and there, but a full workload would give him a chance to get his feet back under him. UCF’s rushing defense has given up a few massive games to opposing running backs, and Sawchuk could breakout in a game like this.

— Ross Lovelace

Brenen Thompson

With the Sooners' leading receiver, Andrel Anthony, out for the season, OU will need a handful of its talented wideouts to step in and pick up the slack. While Nic Anderson will likely take Anthony's spot in the starting lineup, sophomore pass catcher Brenen Thompson can also help fill the void left by the Michigan transfer. In high school, Thompson ran a remarkable 10.18 in the 100-meter dash, making him one of the fastest players in college football. While the former Texas Longhorn has just two catches so far this season, Thompson's speed should grant him more targets now that Anthony is set to undergo surgery.

— Randall Sweet