Stating The Obvious | The Oklahoma Sooners Biggest Concern Heading Into 2016

Fans in the state of Oklahoma have remained patient as the kickoff to the season creeps ever closer. Coming off a College Football Playoff berth alongside a large contingent of starters returning -- which includes Baker Mayfield and Samaje Perine -- the expectation level continues to rise. Could this be the year Bob Stoops returns to the top of the college football world?

That largely depends on one factor...a healthy quarterback in Baker Mayfield! (Go ahead, call captain obvious here.)

Known for gutsy plays, Mayfield suffered an injury in the first half against TCU forcing him to the sideline. Showcasing the ability to take a hit an keep on moving, the transfer refused to miss a game. Completing 17-of-25 pass attempts, Mayfield appeared to be unaffected after passing two concussion tests the week before. Yet, while I do not hope for an injury, the reality is that we must consider the options if such a case plays out.

Behind Mayfield, the list consists of all freshmen without any experience on the collegiate level. Of course, the expectation is for Austin Kendall to step in who continues to impress in practice. But, we won't know what the Sooners have in Kendall until he trots out onto the field in front of 90,000 fans.