Unfortunate hero winning weekly award shows just how bad the Oklahoma Sooners' biggest issue is

The Oklahoma Sooners have one of the best punters in the country, but, is that necessarily a good thing?

Originally from Central Michigan, Luke Elzinga transferred to Oklahoma as a 2021 All-MAC selection. He transferred in 2023 and competed for the starting punter job once he got to Normon. In the 2023 season, Elzinga took over as the primary punter for Oklahoma. He had a very impressive 2023 season, but the offense was much better to start the season than this one is, so we didn't see him as much as we have now.

Heading into the 2024 season, Elzinga was already making an impact. He was named to the preseason watchlist for the Ray Guy Award, which recognizes the nation's top punter. He averaged 45.1 yards per punt in 2023, which would have ranked in the top 20 nationally.

His punting helped Oklahoma improve in net punt yards and was crucial in games where field position was key, like the 2024 game against Houston where his punts were pivotal in a tight victory. His ability to pin opponents deep in their territory has been a game-changer for the Sooners, helping their defense stay so dominant.

But, there's one issue. He's largely winning the award, or in Ray's 8, I should say, because of how much he is being seen. No offense to punters, but you don't want to see them come off of the bench and make their way onto the field. If you're seeing them a ton, that's not a good thing. And, that's the same for the Sooners. We are seeing Elzinga a lot because this offense is so bad, which is a reason he is being recognized for his efforts.

The Sooners have to fix their offense, and I think they will. But, until then, they have a weapon in Elzinga helping their defense continue to lock up opposing teams, and gives defensive coordinator Zac Alley some opportunities to be creative.

With the Sooners moving into the SEC, having a reliable punter like Elzinga could be crucial. His experience and performance make him a key player in Oklahoma's special teams, especially under the new special teams coordinator Doug Deakin.

It looks like Gracen Halton isn't the only player on the Sooners being recognized for his play.

Related: Oklahoma Sooners social media team deserves an award for the work they just put in prior to Houston matchup