Why Oklahoma DT Isaiah Coe is Poised for a Breakout Season

For two years, Isaiah Coe has waited patiently for his chance to lead the Oklahoma defense.

When Coe arrived in 2021 by way of Iowa Western Community College he watched and learned while backing up Perrion Winfrey at defensive tackle.

Last season, Coe had to adjust to a new coach and a different system, but he didn’t let it get the best of him.

“It felt like I was a newcomer all over again, but I just never wavered,” he said Tuesday following practice. “I never lacked self-confidence. I believed in myself, and I felt that this scheme fit me more as a player.”

As the 2023 season opener approaches, Coe, a 6-foot-2, 314-pound redshirt senior, is ready to make his mark for the Sooners. He is also poised to play a leadership role.

“Obviously, I want to be a better leader for my guys and help lead the defense,” he said. “But I just want to improve my all-around game and be a four-down player. I want to be recognized as one of the best in the country because in my heart I believe I am."

In 2022, Coe started six games for OU and totaled 20 tackles, eight tackles for loss, two sacks and three quarterback hurries.

He said the key to improvement, even dominance by the defensive line this season will be consistency.

"We showed flashes last year of making plays but then giving up plays," he said. "The biggest thing is just being consistent, getting off the field on third and fourth down and holding teams to a field goal instead of a touchdown. Things like that.

"Just mainly getting off the field. If we can get off the field at crucial moments, we can give our offense the ball and they can go and score. We have one of the best offenses in the country, so we just have to learn to get them the ball more and stop the run."

Besides working to get better every day during fall camp, Coe is learning how to lead, and has sought advice from head coach Brent Venables and co-defensive coordinator Todd Bates.

"I'm more the type of leader who leads by example. I don't really say much. I just let what I do lead," he said. "Some guys can't just go out there and do the same like you, so you have to be more vocal. You have to encourage people. What we do ain't easy."

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