Oklahoma Seeks to Salvage Disappointing Season
SAN DIEGO — For a school accustomed to competing for national championships, it has been a down year for Oklahoma.
The Sooners head into the Holiday Bowl unranked and with something to prove. After participating in the Bowl Championship Series national championship game the past two years, Oklahoma players do not view their matchup with Oregon as a minor bowl appearance.
"For this team, this is our national championship," senior defensive tackle Dusty Dvoracek said.
Oklahoma struggled early, losing at home to TCU and falling to 2–3 after a loss to Texas. But they rallied to win five of their last six games.
There were growing pains at quarterback. The departure of Heisman winner Jason White and an early ankle injury to Adrian Peterson slowed the offense.
Redshirt freshman Rhett Bomar took over, and his development — along with Peterson getting healthy — fueled the late-season surge.
"Our motivation is really high," Bomar said. "We want to win our last game for our seniors."
At Oklahoma, expectations are always high. Since Bob Stoops took over in 1999, the Sooners have been one of college football’s elite programs.
Peterson remains the key. After rushing for 1,925 yards as a freshman, he rebounded late this season and finished with 1,024 yards despite injuries.
"When healthy he's been phenomenal," Stoops said.
That could be bad news for Oregon, which allowed 183 yards to Peterson the previous season.
Despite a 7–4 record, Oklahoma’s losses came against strong opponents including Texas and UCLA.
"Oklahoma is a great program and playing at the top of their game now," Oregon coach Mike Bellotti said.
Coaching changes add intrigue, with Kevin Wilson stepping in as offensive coordinator.
Oklahoma enters its 39th bowl game looking for a strong finish and momentum heading into 2006.
"When you win that last game... it gives you a boost," Stoops said.
Original article: StatesmanJournal.com