Oklahoma Sooners 2006 ESPN Spring Preview
2006 Schedule
- 9/2 UAB
- 9/9 Washington
- 9/16 at Oregon
- 9/23 Middle Tennessee
- 10/7 at Texas
- 10/14 Iowa State
- 10/21 Colorado
- 10/28 at Missouri
- 11/4 at Texas A&M
- 11/11 Texas A&M
- 11/18 at Baylor
- 11/25 at Oklahoma State
2005 Overview
Overall Record: 8-4
Conference Record: 6-2
Returning Starters
Offense: 5, Defense: 8, Kicker/Punter: 2
2005 Statistical Leaders
- Rushing: Adrian Peterson* (1,104 yds)
- Passing: Rhett Bomar* (2,018 yds)
- Receiving: Malcolm Kelly* (471 yds)
- Tackles: Rufus Alexander* (102)
- Sacks: Calvin Thibodeaux* (10)
- Interceptions: Clint Ingram (5)
Spring Insights
Adrian Peterson continues to impress. The Big 12 star is fully healthy and lighter on his feet, showing increased evasiveness in spring workouts. Defensive ends Larry Birdine and John Williams are back in rotation along with C.J. Ah You and Calvin Thibodeaux. Rising sophomore Reggie Smith, a converted safety, emerged as a top corner opposite D.J. Wolfe. Converted WR Lendy Holmes also looks solid as a nickel back.
Fall Questions
Injuries on the offensive line last season gave several young players valuable experience. It's unclear when the unit will gel. The Sooners may use a two-tight end set with Joe Jon Finley, Auston English, and Jermaine Gresham providing options. Rhett Bomar, a second-year quarterback, will need to step up as a leader despite Peterson being less vocal and only one senior starter on offense. Punter Cody Freeby's dismissal opens competition for that role with junior Mike Knall in the mix.