2008 Season Preview: Defensive Line

by ccmachine on Aug 19, 2008 11:53 PM CDT

According to Bob Stoops the defensive line is doing more than just holding their own against an offensive line that we already know to be massive and athletic. The point being made is that Oklahoma’s defensive line isn’t a bunch of slouches either. Led by junior defensive end Auston English the line has the ability to be one of the greats under Bob Stoops. As of August 15th the starting d-line looked like this.

DE
Auston English

DT
Gerald McCoy

DT
Adrian Taylor

DE
Alan Davis

DeMarcus Granger isn’t in a starting position at this point because of some back problems that have caused him to miss some practice time and the fact that Taylor has really gotten the attention of the coaches. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him move back into the starting lineup at some point though. Regardless of if he starts or not he’ll be in the rotation. Backing up McCoy is senior Corey Bennett.

The depth at defensive end is insane. There are about six guys in that rotation that could be starting and the fact that English and Davis are getting the nod speaks volumes of their talent. Behind the starters are Jeremy Beal and Frank Alexander and the there is John Williams and freshman R.J. Washington who will force their way on the field as well.

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I think

the coaches should be very careful with Auston English given his injury/illness plagued offseason. Given the depth at DE, I would not let him play against Chattanooga. Beal played great in his place at the end of last season and English could probably use the extra time to prepare for Cincinnati and Washington.

By the way, why no mention of Jontae Bumpus? Is he buried on the depth chart? He has a great name.

by Sooner71 on Aug 20, 2008 2:46 PM CDT reply actions

English Is Fine

I went to the kickoff reception last nigh and Stoops said that English doesn’t even look like he has missed any time at all. He is definately ready to go.

You are correct about Bumpus. He is very talented but just has too many guys ahead of him at this point. He is only a redshirt freshman so his time will come.

by ccmachine on Aug 20, 2008 3:13 PM CDT reply actions