By: Dave Myrick
Norman
Brent Venables and his Oklahoma Sooners returned to the rugby fields, west of the Lloyd Noble Center on Tuesday, August 13th for a full pads practice. The media were allowed in for limited viewing.
Among things that stood out to me, Gentry Williams was in full pads, going through pre-practice stretching, possibly a good sign as it goes to the junior defensive back’s health. It also appears Andrel Anthony is back and practicing as well, and Taylor Tatum is getting up to speed pretty fast by the looks of things with the running backs.
Adepoju Adebawore and David Stone also appear to be physically ready. Adebawore, coming into his sophomore campaign, looks significantly thicker and overall bigger than last season. Rumors around him and the closed scrimmage last week are growing legendary, and huge things are expected from the former five-star defensive end from Kansas City.
After practice, coach Venables met with media, and confirmed the loss of Jayden Gibson, who will be out for the season. A blow to a very talented wide receiver, but perhaps one of a few rooms at Oklahoma that depth wise, can survive such a hit. He also mentioned Jackson Arnold, saying he is continuing to grow, and doing well. Josh Bates and J.J. Hester both drew individual praise from coach Venables, as well as Kani Walker, whom Venables said may be the most consistent cornerback thus far.
Robert Spears-Jennings then joined the fray, and possibly had the quote of the day when asked what the fan base should expect from the Oklahoma defense: “fast, physical, and violent.”
Keep it here all fall camp for continuing reports from practice, and interviews with myself and Rives Mitchell.
