Oklahoma Sooners could get several key players back for Red River Rivalry

The Oklahoma Sooners have dealt with a number of injuries dating back to fall camp. From the wide receiver room to the offensive line the Sooners have dealt with a number of injuries.

The offensive line was the healthiest it has been all season against Auburn, and they played arguably their best game of the season. An area where the Sooners could use some good news on the health front is wide receiver. Good fortune could come soon with the Sooners in their bye week.

According to George Stoia of SoonerScoop.com and On3 and a number of media members, Brent Venables relayed on a media conference call that Deion Burks, Taylor Tatum, and Tyler Keltner could return for the Red River Rivalry.

J.J. Hester took a big step forward in the win over Auburn, fulfilling the praise he received in the build-up to the season opener. That’s huge for a passing attack that hasn’t had consistent playmakers in the passing game due to injuries. But if Hester can build off of his big-time performance, the Sooners will get Burks back, which could open things up further for Michael Hawkins Jr. and the passing attack.

Another area where they can improve is in the ground game. Jovantae Barnes took every carry for the offense, though Gavin Sawchuk had opportunities negated by penalties. The Sooners need to find some explosive plays in the run game to help take pressure off their true freshman quarterback against a good Texas team. Taylor Tatums has proven to be able to create in the open field and make people miss.

It may not be nearly as dire after Zach Schmit’s performance against Auburn, but the Sooners could get Keltner back as well, giving the Sooners two kickers they feel confident in.

The Sooners are still down several guys who will be out for the season, but otherwise are getting healthier week by week. Ahead of their biggest challenge of the season against the Texas Longhorns, the Sooners will need all hands on deck for the Red River Showdown.

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