The Sooners plummeted 10 spots from a year ago, no longer riding the high from the Sugar Bowl win against Alabama. The flubbed ending last fall against rival Oklahoma State -- and then being clobbered by Clemson in the Russell Athletic Bowl -- has cast some doubt on the program's future. Coach Bob Stoops, seeking a shake-up, even let go of his two offensive coordinators. This program is trending down; can Stoops again prop it up?
Highlight: Foundation
Despite decided bumps in 2011 and 2014, Stoops has not run for the door. Those close to him say stability in the president's and athletic director's offices are a major reason why he's still in Norman -- and hopeful about turning around the program.
Oklahoma's deep-rooted tradition is nice, but it doesn't mean as much in this age of college football. Loyalty from president David Boren and AD Joe Castiglione is more important; a lot of coaches would love to have stable, supportive bosses like them.
OU is also planning a $160 million renovation of its stadium soon, with a new weight room and fitness facility among the updated amenities.
Lowlight: Talent
Stoops did make those changes to the offensive staff, but perhaps he needed to take a longer look at the defense. Edwards' research showed that of the last 11 OU defenses, the past three have been the worst in terms of Expected Points Allowed. That means forcing turnovers and three-and-outs have been at all-time lows under Stoops, especially turnovers.
The Sooners were 75th in takeaways in 2014 and 104th in 2012. They had five takeaways in the final eight games last season.
"They have not been making a lot of big plays in terms of swinging momentum," Edwards said.
LINK to Article
Overall Rankings:
1 Ohio State
2 Alabama
3 Florida State
4 Auburn
5 LSU
6 USC
7 Clemson
8 Georgia
9 Texas
10 Oregon
11 Notre Dame
12 TCU
13 Texas A&M
14 Baylor
15 Michigan
16 Tennessee
17 Oklahoma
18 Michigan State
19 UCLA
20 Stanford
21 Florida
22 Ole Miss
23 Louisville
24 Penn State
25 Arizona State
