Oklahoma Football | Week 3 | Three Takeaways

On Saturday, the Oklahoma Sooners took to the field as anticipation of the game mounted. A new starting quarterback had been named in hopes of a better offensive outing. Yet, all concerns centralized themselves solely on what the defense would look like without their senior and vocal leader on the field. Regardless of the changes that were made, fans were pleasantly surprised with aspects on each side of the ball.

3 Takeaways

Belldozer Translates To A Vertical Attack

Initially, the questions surrounding Blake Bell being named as the starting quarterback focused around the throwing motion. Through the spring game, the issue persisted in the eyes of many fans. However, the focal point shifted to Bell's experience within the Belldozer package. Without a single passing touchdown to 11 rushing touchdowns last season, no one predicted what would transpire against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane.

In the first half of the game, Bell threw for more yards than the Oklahoma Sooners collected in its previous two games combined and finished with a record setting 413 yard performance. Included in his debut were four touchdown passes as Bell silenced his doubters. This single outing once again has fans optimistic about the future as Blake Bell has transitioned from the Belldozer to a vertical attack. Adaptation is certainly a strong point for this talented quarterback.

The Offense & Defense Consistently Pick Up Slack

In the first two games of the 2013 season, the Sooner offense struggled early. The second half of the ULM game provided a spark but it was the defense that shined and sealed the shutout. Against the West Virginia Mountaineers, the offense continued to struggle scoring 16 points through four quarters of play. Coming to the rescue was the defense yet again. Through the first two games, this became the 4th ranked scoring defense by allowing a mere 3.5 points per game. Simply put, when the offense couldn't find a rhythm, the defense was there to pick up the slack.

In week three, the tides turned as the offense was there in the absence of the defense. As the Oklahoma defense appeared to be gashed time and time again, the reality of the situation is that two touchdowns were allowed along with 20 total points. Without some of the star defenders available, Sterling Shepard and Roy Finch went to work alongside Blake Bell. Gamers step up in crucial moments and the offense put up a staggering 607 yards and 51 points.

Stanvon Taylor: A Star In The Making

Heading into week three, Bob Stoops made it clear that Aaron Colvin was ready to go but only if needed. In holding him out, the coaching staff may have found a star in the making. Our own Jordan Esco breaks down one of the better plays from Stanvon Taylor during the stint of the game. With two pass break ups and three tackles, this is a true freshman to watch!