Crimson Countdown: No. 45 Mykel Patterson-McDonald

The Crimson Countdown is officially on for the 2024 Oklahoma football season. Fans have been waiting for what feels like forever with this one. The Sooners are finally and officially joining the SEC.

The 2023 season was a rebound one for head coach Brent Venables, getting the program back to its standard. OU went 10-3 in Venables’ second season, now it’s time for year No. 3.

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. 45 Mykel Patterson-McDonald

2023 stats: N/A.

2024 outlook:

That’s the type of room you want to see if you’re an OU fan. And if Patterson-McDonald can have the patient and realistic approach? That’s the type of room he should want, too.

Talent galore. Experience all around. This is how he gets better right from the jump. No, it’s hard to envision a scenario where he is seeing a lot of snaps. But if Patterson-McDonald can become a sponge or push the older guys? That’s a win.

With Patterson-McDonald arriving in summer, too, it will be interesting to see if safety becomes his primary spot moving forward. Or if the staff has plans to test him out elsewhere.

2024 safety outlook

Safety coach Brandon Hall has done as a good a job as anyone building his room. Oklahoma has an impressive safety room led by senior Billy Bowman, who opted to put the NFL on hold for one more year in Norman. Playing next Bowman will likely be Peyton Bowen and Robert Spears-Jennings. Both had impressive 2023 seasons and good spring practices, making them the frontrunners to start alongside Bowman. But OU has a trio of freshman — Jaydan Hardy, Reggie Powers and Michael Boganowski — vying for roles next season.