Oklahoma RB Taylor Tatum a 'physical presence', becoming a 'home run hitter' for Sooners

Freshman running back Taylor Tatum has been a sensation for the Oklahoma Sooners in 2024, making big play after big play in Oklahoma's 2024 campaign.

In three games, Tatum has just 102 rushing yards but has three touchdowns, two on the ground and one through the air. Two of those came in this Week 3 game against the Tulane Green Wave.

Tatum looks like the Sooners' best running back so far and has the full attention of Sooners' head coach Brent Venables.

After their victory over Tulane, Venables remarked on Tatum's ability as a runner.

"He's got a great physical presence to him. He's incredibly explosive. He's got really good instincts ... he can run through trash. He's a legit home run hitter."

Tatum's role will only continue to grow as the season goes on after stacking several strong performances.

Against Tulane, he served as the RB2 behind Jovantae Barnes in carries, seemingly taking over Gavin Sawchuk's spot in the rotation. Oklahoma might have just been riding the hot hand in this game, but Tatum has earned the reps with his ability on the field so far.

A former five-star, Tatum was the number-one running back recruit in the class of 2024 by numerous recruiting sites.

He committed to the Sooners to continue playing running back, but will also be playing baseball for Oklahoma in the spring. His home-run swing after scoring a touchdown against Tulane was a nice homage to his two-sport background.

Related: R Mason Thomas, Taylor Tatum headline Studs and Duds from Oklahoma Sooners' 34-19 win over Tulane

I'd like to see them continue to explore Tatum's role in the passing game, as he's got plenty of juice and looks comfortable catching the ball. I also think Jovontae Barnes has been brutal in pass protection in each game of the season, and Tatum might be an upgrade (at least perhaps through subtraction).

As Tatum continues to grow more comfortable, his touches should increase every game. It wouldn't surprise me and many others to see him be the Sooners' main back by the time they head to Dallas to take on the Texas Longhorns.