It wasn't the blowout we wanted to see and it wasn't even the margin of victory that we predicted but it was a win and the Sooner Machine known as Oklahoma football keeps rolling along.
The Sooners gave Tech 21 of their 24 first half points but then got stingy in the second half forcing the Red Raiders to try to earn points on their own. It seemed like Bob Stoops just pushed the easy button when his team was trailing 24-10. Oklahoma outscored Texas Tech 24-0 after that point.
Key Plays
Turnovers just about cost Oklahoma but resolve allowed them to win. They didn't quit and they didn't panic. While there were several huge plays during the game here are three plays that turned the tide in Oklahoma's favor.
Trailing 24-10 with 17 seconds left in the first half Paul Thompson hits Malcolm Kelly in stride for a 40 yard touchdown to cut Oklahoma's deficit to 7 at the half.
Trailing 24 - 20 with 38 seconds left in the third quarter Texas Tech had a 42 yard field goal nullified because of a false start. After the five yard penalty was enforced Tech kicker Alex Trilica missed from 47 yards.
Leading 27 - 24, thanks to a 41 yard touchdown run by freshman Chris Brown, cornerback Lendy Holmes sacked Graham Harrell on 2nd and 10 for a nine yard loss. Harrell would only complete four more passes in thirteen attempts after that.
Playmakers
Paul Thompson - had a huge night in his last home game. He completed 24 of 31 passes (77.4%) for 309 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.
Chris Brown - carried the ball 16 times for 84 yards (5.3ypc) and two touchdowns.
Malcolm Kelly - hauled in 11 catches for 153 yards (13.9ypc) and a touchdown.
Darien Williams - recorded five solo tackles, one for loss, and had a pass break-up.
Parting Shot
Another great win by the Sooners moves the winning streak to five games. Oklahoma has got to start taking better care of the football before it becomes more costly. Believe it or not but the Sooners are back in the conference championship hunt. They need some help from A&M and they have to win out (Baylor, Oklahoma State). That task becomes more difficult without protecting the ball.