Crimson And Cream Machine - College Football Preview | TCU Horned Frogs At #10 Oklahoma SoonersA Site For Sooner Fans By Sooner Fanshttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48625/crimsonandcream_fave.png2013-10-04T17:13:25-05:00http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/rss/stream/45689892013-10-04T17:13:25-05:002013-10-04T17:13:25-05:00TCU At #10 Oklahoma | Opponent Q&A
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/RMKh7B7E5F513fSHWXCM8Y9yb4Y=/9x0:3990x2654/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/20670913/182189780.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Ronald Martinez</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The only thing standing in the way of the Oklahoma Sooners rolling into the Cotton Bowl next weekend with an undefeated record is the TCU Horned Frogs. A onetime favorite to win the Big Twelve Conference, the Frogs have been struck by the injury bug this season, resulting in a 2-2 (0-1) record as the visit Norman. Don’t take that to mean that TCU isn’t dangerous though. They still have a ton of talent, and a ton of speed, which can result in a ton of points real quick. Just look at the 31 points they hung on SMU in the fourth quarter last weekend. </p> <p>Giving us our inside look at the Horned Frogs is <a href="http://www.frogsowar.com/" target="_blank">Frogs O' War</a> associate editor, HawkeyedFrog. You can check out the other side of the Q&A, with my responses to his questions, <a href="http://www.frogsowar.com/2013/10/3/4798052/six-shooter-q-a-with-oklahoma-sooners-blog-crimson-and-cream-machine" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<blockquote>
<p><i><b>CCM: Discuss the current injury situation with the Horned Frogs and how it has affected the team on the field.</b></i></p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>FOW: </b>It's been a bit grim so far I must say. I would say that there are four players that TCU cannot be as effective without- <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77347/casey-pachall">Casey Pachall</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/77362/waymon-james">Waymon James</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135250/jason-verrett">Jason Verrett</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/161275/devonte-fields">Devonte Fields</a> and TCU has seen all of them but James miss at least some time with injury so far- though according to Patterson Verrett could have continued to play against SMU if the score hadn't dictated otherwise. The loss of Casey was particularly huge, as so much of the offense seemed to be keyed on the throws that he could make downfield to set up everything else that playcaller Jarrett Anderson stubbornly tried to carry on that ideal with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135251/trevone-boykin">Trevone Boykin</a>- who is many things, but a consistent downfield threat is not one of them. As a result it's felt that a lot of TCU's offensive talent at the skill positions has been marginalized, as the Frogs have continued to attempt to cram the square peg of Trevone Boykin into the round hole of the Casey Pachall offense while neglecting that Boykin can facilitate the running game in a way that Pachall can only dream of in the zone read and option game. Fields has also not been on the field enough to be much of a factor so far this year, but though the D-line has managed to collect some sacks the pressure hasn't been consistent without the 2012 Defensive Player of the year on the corner- as even when he was quiet against Tech he still drew doubles and had the running back stay home to chip him that let the remainder of the TCU line collect four sacks. Hopefully one day TCU will be a fully healthy team throughout the Big 12 season, but it's looking like once again this will not be that year.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><i><b>CCM: What would you say the identity of this TCU team is?</b></i></p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>FOW: </b>On offense it's a Mistaken identity![/ba-dum-tish] As I mentioned above the offense received a major shakeup with Casey's broken arm in week 2, and it's taken a good while to adjust to it. The good news for the Frogs is that in the second half of the SMU game the playcalling seemed ready to rely more on the running game and as a result TCU responded with a surge, scoring the more points in the fourth quarter than any Big 12 team has scored in a quarter so far this year (including the run-it-up offense of Art Briles). When running the ball TCU's offensive line seems to click and it lets receivers create separation on play action that they're not getting when Boykin is just repeatedly dropping back to pass. On defense this TCU team is like every other Patterson defense before it- built to stop the run. LSU managed a decent 4.1 yards per carry against TCU, but if you remove the Tiger's one long run and instead you're looking at a 2.7 ypc that is something that Alabama would gladly take when they play LSU later this year. As always, Patterson will stop the run first and count on his secondary to bend but not break while looking for the big plays when they're available. So far the secondary has done quite well in seizing those opportunities, but no matter how many times the opponent likes to air it out, Patterson doesn't dial up interesting blitzes and such until the opposing ground game is subdued.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><i><b>CCM: The Horned Frogs seem to have a ton of talent at the receiver position and yet TCU ranks 94th nationally in passing with an average of 200 yards per game. Why seems to be the major hang up in the passing attack?</b></i></p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>FOW: </b>The hang up is getting the ball in the hands of those receivers, as Boykin's downfield success rate has been fairly abysmal so far. We've seen some great flashes from numerous receivers, including youngsters <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/201487/ty-slanina">Ty Slanina</a>, Ja'Juan Story and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/135273/ladarius-brown">LaDarius Brown</a>, but we haven't seen Boykin really go to the short passing game to get the ball into his receivers hands quickly apart from the end of the SMU game... which went very well. There's also the issue that TCU's offensive line has trouble with speed rushers, so on the slower to develop passing plays Boykin has ended up getting flushed and throwing on the run a great deal, which has led to issues with both downfield accuracy and turnovers. It's fixable with the scheme, but right now Boykin isn't the type of quarterback you want challenging defenses deep unless it's off of a play fake.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><i><b>CCM: TCU is ranked 50th in scoring defense (22.8 ppg) and appears to be struggling against the pass. They are 8th in the conference in passing yards allowed per game (238) yet they lead the conference in interceptions (9). Is this an instance in which the defense is actually better than what the stats show?</b></i></p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>FOW: </b>There are two issues that make TCU's pass defense look worse on paper than it is on the field. Firstly, TCU's secondary is set up to lure quarterbacks into a sense of security early in the game, they play with a bit more of a cushion and play cover 2 beneath to give up the short passes that get quarterbacks going. As the game progresses and the secondary starts to get a feel for what the offense is trying to do on down and distance (you don't get to play in the secondary for Patterson unless you're both smart and have good instincts) they start playing tighter and jumping routes, which leads to the interceptions. The second issue is the quality and type of offenses that TCU has faced so far- Zach Mettenberger has looked fantastic for LSU this season against SEC defenses, but had his worst quarterback rating and completion percentage (just 50%) against TCU, while Tech and SMU simply kept throwing the ball because they were getting nothing on the ground (1.7 yards per carry and 0.5 yards per carry respectively), leading to TCU facing 90 passes over the course of those two games. Both Baker Mayfield and Garrett Gilbert threw two more interceptions than touchdown passes against the frogs, and finished the game with just over 50% completion ratings so I feel comfortable saying that the yardage issues that TCU's secondary has had so far is more about volume than about not being a good secondary.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b><i>CCM: Score prediction time. Tell us how you see things shaking out in Norman on Saturday night.</i></b></p>
</blockquote>
<p><b>FOW: </b>I'm a homer- possibly the most irrationally optimistic TCU fan that there is (just ask the guys at Viva the Matador who enjoy mocking my preseason dreams of national championships), and really the more I talk about this game the more confident I am that TCU will be in it throughout and have a good chance to win. That said... I'm not to the point where I'm ready to pick the Frogs to beat OU in Norman yet. So for the first time as the Q&A guy for Frogs O' War I'm actually picking a TCU loss, 27-23, with Boykin being picked off in the end zone with ten seconds left to seal the game for the Sooners.</p>
<h4>More from Crimson And Cream Machine:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/4/4803952/friday-locks-eyeing-big-ten-games-this-weekend?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Friday Locks: Eyeing Big Ten Games This Weekend</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/4/4803242/ccm-pickem-week-five-winner-top-10?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">CCM Pick'em Week Five Winner & Top 10</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/4/4796858/ou-oklahoma-sooners-football-recruiting-2014-joe-mixon-adoree-jackson?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">OU Football Recruiting 2014 | Sooners Prepping For One Of Their Most High Profile Weekends In Stoops Era</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/3/4799990/big-twelve-football-weekend-preview-the-full-slate-of-games?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Big Twelve Football Weekend Preview | The Full Slate Of Games</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/3/4797882/ou-oklahoma-sooners-football-bob-stoops-sec-southeastern-conference?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Bob Stoops Takes Another Not So Subtle Jab At The SEC</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/4/4804010/tcu-horned-frogs-at-oklahoma-sooners-football-opponent-q-aM. Hofeld2013-10-04T08:00:12-05:002013-10-04T08:00:12-05:00Epic Recruiting Weekend Has Distinct 'Cali' Feel
<figure>
<img alt="2014 Five Star Oakley (CA) Running Back, Joe Mixon" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QjSZ5-XMopQLCiCIsIzDsZbEUqw=/40x0:359x213/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/20565819/325428.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>2014 Five Star Oakley (CA) Running Back, Joe Mixon | SoonerScoop.com</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>With a sub-par 2013 home football schedule, OU fans who follow recruiting have known for some time that this weekend's game was shaping up to be the Sooners only true "marquee" game with which to attract recruits. And for several months the OU coaches have been coordinating their efforts to schedule both official (OU pays for travel) and unofficial (the recruit pays for travel) visits this weekend for a number of high profile recruits.</p>
<p>In fact if all those scheduled to be in Norman do in fact make the trip, it could prove to be the most high profile recruiting weekend the Sooners have ever had under Bob Stoops.</p>
<p>Making things all the more interesting is the abundance of California prospects who are expected to make the trip. If travel plans hold, the Sooners will be hosting five of the Golden State's Top 10 overall recruits and another who resides in the Top 50. in fact, the group has even started referring to it as the 'Weekend of the West' on social media with so many of them planning to make the trip to Norman.</p>
<p>In addition to those already mentioned and several others we'll tell you about, Oklahoma is also expected to be hosting close to half of their current list of 2014 commitments as well. Which is always a good things as having already bought in (hence their commitment), they can help sell the school/coaches/environment to those uncommitted prospects who will be in attendance.</p>
<p>But enough in delaying the suspense. You're here because you want to know who will be on campus and we're happy to share as it could be a very, very significant weekend for the future of this Oklahoma football program.</p>
<h5><i>2014 Running Back | 6'2" 207 lbs | Joe Mixon | *****</i></h5>
<p><object width="640" height="480"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/XQnxkxP2F2Q?version=3&hl=en_US">
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true">
<param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always">
<embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/XQnxkxP2F2Q?version=3&hl=en_US" mce_src="//www.youtube.com/v/XQnxkxP2F2Q?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="480" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object> <br id="1380758675151"></p>
<p>Of all the high profile kids expected in Norman this weekend, Mixon is undoubtedly the headliner. He is Rivals' No. 1 overall running back and the No. 1 overall all purpose back in 247's composite rankings. He is a phenomenal athlete who is equally as dangerous running the ball as he is catching it.</p>
<p>The Oakley (CA) product is a self-professed huge fan of Adrian Peterson, which is certainly one of the factors that has drawn him to the Sooners. In fact, there have even been unconfirmed reports that AD could be in Norman this weekend. Which, if true (and that's a VERY big if at the moment), would be virtually impossible for any other school to top and you would have to think put OU right at the top of Mixon's list. Many feel that the Sooners are in good shape with the five star back for a variety of reasons, the AD connection and the relationship he and Cale Gundy have developed among them.</p>
<p>As you would expect, there is no shortage of suitors for Mixon's services. He holds offers from a plethora of programs, but has a proclaimed Top 5 of: Oklahoma, Florida, California, Wisconsin, and Oregon.</p>
<h5 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 1em;"><i>2014 Athlete | 5'10" 172 lbs | Adoree' Jackson | *****</i></h5>
<div>
<object width="640" height="360"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/IF5VUB58X4k?version=3&hl=en_US">
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true">
<param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always">
<embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/IF5VUB58X4k?version=3&hl=en_US" mce_src="//www.youtube.com/v/IF5VUB58X4k?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object> <br id="1380759834291">
</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Jackson is listed as an athlete by several services because he could play either offense or defense (or both, potentially) at the college level. However, Oklahoma is believe to be recruiting him as a corner. Like a lot of elite high school athletes, Jackson's success as a cover corner is due in large part to being better than 99.9% of his competition. As you can see from his highlights, he possesses ridiculous athleticism though he will certainly need to add some bulk to his frame in order to hold up to D-I competition.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>He has a Top 12 (yes, seriously) list of schools that includes the likes of Florida, Michigan, Oregon, LSU, as well as Oklahoma among others. The odds of him actually committing this weekend are virtually zero, especially considering this will be his first of five allowed official visits. But as you'll hear us say all the time, getting a kid on campus is never a bad thing.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>
<h5 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 1em;"><i>2014 Safety | 6'2" 185 lbs | Steven Parker | ****</i></h5>
</div>
<div>
<object width="640" height="360"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/i9RR5WJdRK4?version=3&hl=en_US">
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true">
<param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always">
<embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/i9RR5WJdRK4?version=3&hl=en_US" mce_src="//www.youtube.com/v/i9RR5WJdRK4?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object> <br id="1380763293373">
</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>If you've spent any time at all following OU recruiting or are familiar with high school football in the state of Oklahoma, you've undoubtedly heard the name Steven Parker. He's not only one of, if not the, top players in the state, but he's one of the top players in the country at his respective position. He's a dynamic, play-making safety who obviously comes from a winning program in Jenks.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Many have believed for quite some time it was simply a matter of when not if he eventually committed to OU, but he and his family have been adamant about using all five of his official visits. That said, he has been to a number of games in Norman and this weekend will obviously make it another so people have good reason for their speculation.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div><span><i><b>2014 Linebacker | 6'1" 212 lbs | Dwight Williams | ****</b></i></span></div>
<div><br></div>
<div>
<p><object width="640" height="360"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/z2IGkXkCoU8?hl=en_US&version=3">
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true">
<param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always">
<embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/z2IGkXkCoU8?hl=en_US&version=3" mce_src="//www.youtube.com/v/z2IGkXkCoU8?hl=en_US&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object> <br id="1380760496249"></p>
</div>
<div>Williams is actually a teammate of Adoree' Jackson's and apparently made arrangements to make the trip to Norman once he found out Jackson and several of the other Cali kids were all coming. The No. 4 overall outside linebacker in the country (per Rivals) hasn't been a guy who has really talked a lot about Oklahoma even though he does hold an offer from the Sooners. So this could just be a case of a friend, albeit a very talented one in his own right, coming along for the ride or it could be the start of something. That will be up to how well the visit goes, but again getting a kid like this on campus without ever having previously expressed the desire to visit certainly isn't a bad thing.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>As a linebacker, Williams plays much bigger than his listed height and weight. Very active around the football and though his technique could use some work, he does not shy away from contact.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>In addition to Oklahoma, he holds offers from Clemson, Florida, Georgia, Miami, Michigan, and Tennessee among others.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>
<h5 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 1em;"><i>2014 Athlete | 6'0" 170 lbs | Michiah Quick | ****</i></h5>
</div>
<div>
<object width="640" height="360"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/WRJjjLqNc5s?version=3&hl=en_US">
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true">
<param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always">
<embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/WRJjjLqNc5s?version=3&hl=en_US" mce_src="//www.youtube.com/v/WRJjjLqNc5s?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object> <br id="1380762417692">
</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Another guy listed as an athlete, Quick is also believed to be projected as a corner by the Oklahoma coaches despite some talk that he'd prefer to play wide receiver at the next level. The issue being, while a very talented athlete, six foot receiver come along pretty often. While six foot corners who can cover like Quick can tend to be first round draft picks.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Working in OU's favor are several factors. (1) Two of Quick's former Fresno Central East teammates currently reside in the city of Norman, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/202475/hatari-byrd" class="sbn-auto-link">Hatari Byrd</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/202473/l-j-moore" class="sbn-auto-link">L.J. Moore</a>. (2) Current OU grad assistant, Chip Viney, has a preexisting and long time relationship with Quick. Both of which are reasons many believe OU leads for Quick who, in addition to Oklahoma, holds offers from schools like Alabama, Notre Dame, UCLA, and USC among others.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>
<h5 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 1em;"><i>2014 Defensive Tackle | 6'1" 285 lbs | Tashon Smallwood | ***</i></h5>
</div>
<div>
<object width="640" height="360"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/HIOBa3hKjMs?version=3&hl=en_US">
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true">
<param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always">
<embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/HIOBa3hKjMs?version=3&hl=en_US" mce_src="//www.youtube.com/v/HIOBa3hKjMs?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object> <br id="1380762361076">
</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Another pair of California teammates, in Smallwood and Quick, that will be making the trek to Norman. The big defensive tackle had previously been committed to USC though somewhat recently, prior to the Lane Kiffin firing, opened back up his recruitment and will now be at OU over the weekend.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Possesses a stout, wide-bodied frame ideal for playing on the insides and while there can be some motor issues at times when he flashes it is impressive. No different than most high school defensive tackles, he relies on brute strength to overpower opponents and will need to work on his technique at the next level. Will be interesting to see what type of role the OU coaches see him in if they continue to use this 3-3-5 alignment as Smallwood does not appear to have the frame to project well in the middle of a three man line.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Smallwood reportedly holds offers from Alabama, Oklahoma, UCLA, USC, and Wisconsin among others.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>
<h5 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 1em;"><i>2014 Defensive Tackle | 6'0" 293 lbs | Ainuu Taua | ****</i></h5>
</div>
<div>
<object width="640" height="480"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/tHGWiS6xyUI?hl=en_US&version=3">
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true">
<param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always">
<embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/tHGWiS6xyUI?hl=en_US&version=3" mce_src="//www.youtube.com/v/tHGWiS6xyUI?hl=en_US&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="480" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object> <br id="1380762739278">
</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Ever since his arrival on campus, OU defensive line coach Jerry Montgomery has made a concerted effort to recruit more players of Polynesian descent. He had a connection during his time at Michigan and has carried that over at Oklahoma with Taua being just one of several Polynesian players Montgomery has been recruiting.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>The Lompoc (CA) product, similar to Smallwood, doesn't necessarily possess the ideal height for a defensive tackle, but uses his low center of gravity to his advantage. Quick in a small space, Taua can play with a violent aggression at times.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>He currently holds offers from schools like Arizona, Arizona State, California, Oklahoma, UCLA, Utah, and Wisconsin among others.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>
<h5 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 0px; font-size: 1em;"><i>2014 Linebacker | 6'3" 240 lbs | Devante Bond | ***</i></h5>
<p><object width="640" height="360"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/uNaCX5gYIxU?version=3&hl=en_US">
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true">
<param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always">
<embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/uNaCX5gYIxU?version=3&hl=en_US" mce_src="//www.youtube.com/v/uNaCX5gYIxU?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="640" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object> <br id="1380761097461"></p>
<p>Bond was actually a member of the 2013 class and signed with the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/miami-hurricanes" class="sbn-auto-link">Miami Hurricanes</a> out of junior college before an academic issue arose late in the process and prevented him from enrolling. He and Miami parted ways and now he will sign with the 2014 class and plans to enroll in January with whichever school he eventually chooses. He and Oklahoma are familiar with one another as the Sooners were one of the top schools he was considering before signing with the Canes.</p>
<p>As a player, Bond is a dynamic pass rusher off the edge that would fit perfectly in the type of role <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/161001/eric-striker" class="sbn-auto-link">Eric Striker</a> is currently playing in this 3-3-5 OU defense. He has his limitations in coverage, but when you can line up and rush the passer like he has proved capable of, you tend to look past any coverage issues.</p>
<p>Of all the guys expected in Norman this weekend, several have put odds on Bond of being the most likely to commit.</p>
</div>
<div><i>--</i></div>
<div>In addition to the ridiculous list of talented players above, Oklahoma is also expected to be hosting the following players as well:</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>2014 Dallas (TX) Defensive End Trey Carter (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4z8w1RkzMvE">VIDEO</a>)</div>
<div>2015 Edmond (OK) Linebacker Caileb Booze (<a href="http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1593738/highlights/49263441">VIDEO</a>)</div>
<div>2015 Midwest City (OK) Safety Will Sunderland (<a href="http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1928625/highlights/24489373">VIDEO</a>)</div>
<div>2015 Flower Mound (TX) Offensive Tackle Keaton Sutherland (<a href="http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1668228/highlights/44033389">VIDEO</a>)</div>
<div>2015 Missouri City (TX) Linebacker Cameron Townsend (<a href="http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/528712/highlights/36510425">VIDEO</a>)</div>
https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/4/4796858/ou-oklahoma-sooners-football-recruiting-2014-joe-mixon-adoree-jacksonJordan Esco2013-10-03T00:30:25-05:002013-10-03T00:30:25-05:00Patterson: "Oklahoma Is Back"
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/n2aVeHDYyEpK7pnxwjPFgYcI014=/0x33:4000x2700/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/20571041/20130928_jla_ss1_473.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Oklahoma has become a more physical team in 2013</p>
<div class="pullquote">"Defensively, they're playing as well as anybody in the league and are being physical. I think they've only allowed a couple touchdowns in the air. They're playing very well, so we've got a lot of work to do." <span>-TCU Coach Gary Patterson</span>
</div>
<p>Just in case you haven't noticed, the Sooners are back to playing a physical brand of football. In a movement that returns them to their roots, the Stoops brothers are playing sound defense and running the football. Last Saturday they were clearly the more physical team against Notre Dame and that boils down to two factors, a stout defense and running the football.</p>
<p>TCU head coach Gary Patterson acknowledged this about the Sooners as he prepares his team to play Oklahoma on Saturday night. In his weekly meeting with the media, Patterson specifically pointed out Oklahoma's offensive success on the ground and the teams physicality.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><i>"We're now going straight into conference play and will face a very good Oklahoma team. Coach (Bob) Stoops is getting back to playing very good defense and running the football. All their backs are really good. Their offensive line is tremendous. I think what gets left out offensively is their wide receivers, who are outstanding."</i></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Defensively, Patterson suggested that it was the amount of pressure that the Sooners are applying that is leading to greater success in Mike Stoops second season back as the defensive coordinator and it looks like you can add the TCU coach into the mix of people who believe that the defensive revival is in full effect in Norman.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><i>"They apply a lot of pressure. I think Mike (Stoops) and Bob (Stoops) are a bit more comfortable with what they're doing now, and I think it shows. They tackle well. They're physical against the run and the pass, and they're getting takeaways. <b>They're back to what an Oklahoma team is like.</b>"</i></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Suffering through his own rash of injuries, Patterson can appreciate the value of a healthy team. In 2012 Oklahoma was snake bit by injuries but has been able to remain healthy up front through the first four games of the season and that has helped spark the offensive success.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><i>"They've won, and they've played better on offense. Both their quarterbacks can run. They do some things with Knight they don't do with Bell. Both of them have those capabilities. You've got three or four tailbacks who can really go, and they've stayed healthy. Your center and two tackles are guys who have played a lot of football. They've kept their five for the first four ball games. They're keeping them intact and not losing anybody. They lost a couple of those guys to injuries the year before."</i></p>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<h4>More from Crimson And Cream Machine:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/2/4796112/sooner-nation-podcast-previews-oklahoma-sooners-and-tcu-horned-frogs-football?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Sooner Nation Podcast Previews Oklahoma And TCU</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/2/4792694/tcu-horned-frogs-speedy-defense-poses-real-threat-for-oklahoma-sooners?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">TCU Horned Frogs' Speedy Defense Poses Real Threat For Oklahoma Sooners</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/2/4793690/ccm-top-25-the-first-five-and-then-the-other-guys?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">CCM Top 25 | The First Five And Then The Other Guys</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/1/4787864/big-12-football-tales-of-the-third-down-sooners-baylor-longhorns-red-raiders?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Big 12 Football: Tales of the Third Down</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/1/4789454/oklahoma-sooners-football-opponent-watch-tcu-horned-frogs?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Oklahoma Football Opponent Watch - TCU Horned Frogs </a></li>
</ul>
https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/3/4797484/patterson-oklahoma-sooners-football-is-back-to-playing-defense-and-running-the-ballM. Hofeld2013-10-02T18:30:07-05:002013-10-02T18:30:07-05:00Podcast Previews The Sooners And Frogs
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/meFLD01nCveNkLSuhvqS5UU1H64=/0x38:4000x2705/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/20556893/157269993.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>R. Yeatts</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The 4-0 Sooners return home this weekend to host TCU. Its the second conference game for each school and OU needs to watch out for a letdown before the big game in the Cotton Bowl next weekend.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><object width="300" height="150" data="http://www.talkshoe.com/badges/badgeSm300.swf?domainId=api.talkshoe.com&masterId=90138&colorId=red" id="W46e01640976f216c" allowscriptaccess="always" allownetworking="all" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"><param name="wmode" value="transparent">
<param name="movie" value="http://www.talkshoe.com/badges/badgeSm300.swf?domainId=api.talkshoe.com&masterId=90138&colorId=red">
<param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></object> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Use the media player to listen</p>
<p>Joining us tonight will be Hawkeyed Frog from SBN's TCU site <a target="_blank" href="http://www.frogsowar.com/">Frogs O' War</a>. We'll get his take on the game and then offer our own offensive and defensive breakdowns.</p>
<p>We'll also offer our opinions on the Big Twelve schedule this weekend, starting with Texas at Iowa State on Thursday night.</p>
<p>Make sure to join us for the podcast and be sure to participate by leaving your comments below.</p>
https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/2/4796112/sooner-nation-podcast-previews-oklahoma-sooners-and-tcu-horned-frogs-footballM. Hofeld2013-10-02T06:00:07-05:002013-10-02T06:00:07-05:00TCU's Speedy Defense Poses Threat For Oklahoma
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/lFXgN-jfJsvxmtlavlxzO3VqTMI=/0x43:4000x2710/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/20516245/20130907_krj_aj6_039.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>While many perceive that the Notre Dame defense is the best that Oklahoma will face, I'm going out on a limb to say...false! TCU possesses a defense that could potentially wreak havoc upon the Sooners.</p> <p>At the beginning of the season, the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/tcu-horned-frogs" class="sbn-auto-link">TCU Horned Frogs</a> found themselves ranked inside the top 25 and in the Big 12 Championship contender conversation. The main theme for this former BCS buster was to "survive then thrive" with the meat of the schedule coming early. Yet after a 2-2 start to the season, much of the hype has dissipated. This downward trend can be credited to injuries forcing players into the limelight of a starting role. However, it has also led many opposing fanbases to a certain level of overconfidence.</p>
<p> </p>
<div class="pullquote">They (TCU) play great defensively. Very, very, very sound and disciplined in how they play. They play hard with great technique. You know as a coach, you always appreciate that when you watch another team play that way. <span>-Bob Stoops</span>
</div>
<p><br>On Saturday, TCU faces a surging <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/teams/oklahoma-sooners" class="sbn-auto-link">Oklahoma Sooners</a> in a land formerly known as the most difficult place to escape with a win, Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma. As they make the trip, one post the Horned Frogs can lean on will be their defensive unit.</p>
<p>While many perceive that the Notre Dame Fight Irish defense is the best that Oklahoma will face all season, I'm going out on a limb to say...false! TCU possesses a defense built around speed to utilize the 4-2-5 that could potentially wreak havoc upon the Sooners and anything they attempt to do offensively.</p>
<h4>TCU's Defensive Is Deceptively Better Than Advertised</h4>
<p>Up to this point of the season, the Oklahoma Sooners have yet to face a defensive secondary of this caliber. As mentioned above, speed is the key of this defensive unit. There is no doubt that <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/115318/blake-bell" class="sbn-auto-link">Blake Bell</a> has exceeded expectations not only of some fans but also the coaching staff. He continues to add to his already impressive stat line of 24 rushing touchdowns. Through two games Bell has etched 638 passing yards and 6 touchdown passes on the ole resume. However, the most impressive stat may be that this kid has yet to throw an interception.</p>
<p>There to disrupt the timing of the passing attack will be guys like <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114582/sam-carter" class="sbn-auto-link">Sam Carter</a> and Chris Hackett. With discipline in technique and solid instincts, these are two defensive backs who have recorded three interceptions each. As a unit, this TCU secondary is giving up 238 yards through the air and to their credit have 24 passes broken up with 9 interceptions.</p>
<p>Needless to say, the timing between Blake Bell and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/160989/sterling-shepard" class="sbn-auto-link">Sterling Shepard</a>/Jalen Saunders will need to be near flawless or the result could suck the wind of the sails for this offense. It is not only the secondary that could cause problems for this trio, it's also the pass rush.</p>
<p>It is likely the Horned Frogs will remain without reigning Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and elite pass rusher, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/161275/devonte-fields" class="sbn-auto-link">Devonte Fields</a> who suffered a foot injury against Texas Tech. Even without their best pass rusher, TCU has found a way to get pressure on the quarterback through the use of blitz packages and multiple looks. Defensive tackle Jon Lewis is quite the specimen consistently finding ways to collapse the pocket from the middle. He currently leads the charge with 4 sacks but has three others behind him with 2 sacks each. Shoring up the middle has become a challenge for opposing offensive lines. On the season, this is a defensive unit with 15 sacks to their name while allowing opponents to rush for 115.75 yards per game through four games.</p>
<p>It is not the run stopping front seven of Notre Dame, but again, the theme here for Texas Christian is speed.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/76961/gabe-ikard" class="sbn-auto-link">Gabe Ikard</a> and the offensive line have proven that when push comes to shove, they can hold their own. The O-Line will need keep up the momentum gained against previous opponents and protect the quarterback. Leaning on past experience with some of the talent these linemen have faced will prove valuable. But, being familiar with the 4-2-5 defensive scheme of TCU from past meetings may be even more vital as it aids in identifying blitzing defenders. So far this unit has done their job at an above average level giving up a total of five sacks.</p>
<p>With the odds in the Sooners' favor as the home team and the Red River Rivalry on the horizon, potential intangibles could arise. The Horned Frogs will need to be accounted for lest we forget the home opener of 2005 against this very program.</p>
<h4>More from Crimson And Cream Machine:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/2/4793690/ccm-top-25-the-first-five-and-then-the-other-guys?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">CCM Top 25 | The First Five And Then The Other Guys</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/1/4787864/big-12-football-tales-of-the-third-down-sooners-baylor-longhorns-red-raiders?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Big 12 Football: Tales of the Third Down</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/1/4789454/oklahoma-sooners-football-opponent-watch-tcu-horned-frogs?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Oklahoma Football Opponent Watch - TCU Horned Frogs </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/9/30/4787460/ou-oklahoma-sooners-football-notre-dame-fighting-irish-film-study?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">OU Football 2013 | Sooners vs. Notre Dame | Film Study</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/9/30/4787580/weekend-recap-big-twelve-football-taking-shape?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Weekend Recap: Big Twelve Taking Shape </a></li>
</ul>
https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/2/4792694/tcu-horned-frogs-speedy-defense-poses-real-threat-for-oklahoma-soonersRich DeCray2013-10-01T00:15:23-05:002013-10-01T00:15:23-05:00First Look: TCU Horned Frogs
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/YIuWI_zfNPBU2X6hB8VdPWXNWpI=/0x19:4000x2686/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/20454243/182172416.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Ronald Martinez</figcaption>
</figure>
<div class="pullquote">"They’re (TCU) always really good. They’re incredibly disciplined defensively and in their structure and how they play and they play really well. I always think they’re one of the better defenses out there. Offensively, with (Trevone) Boykin they cause you problems, they spread the ball out, (Brandon) Carter is a great, speedy receiver that can hurt you. They’re a dangerous team like always, like they were a year ago. They’re a good team." <span>-Bob Stoops</span>
</div>
<p>On the heels of a monumental victory over Notre Dame, in South Bend, the Sooners return to conference play this Saturday evening when they host TCU. Oklahoma is 8-4 all-time against the Horned Frogs with the most recent loss coming at the onset of the 2005 season.</p>
<p>TCU has been plagued by injuries this season but, despite a 2-2 record, they're still an extremely dangerous team as evidenced by their 31 fourth quarter points they scored on SMU last Saturday. The Frogs dropped the season opener against LSU and then fell short in their conference opener at Texas Tech. Their two wins on the season came against SE Louisiana and SMU.</p>
<p>Offensively they are scoring an average of 30.8 points per game which ranks them 7th in the Big Twelve and 66th nationally. On the ground, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/161255/b-j-catalon">B.J. Catalon</a> leads the rushing attack with a team high 214 yards and 5.8 yards per carry average on 37 carries. The TCU rushing attack grinds out 149.3 yards per game which is 8th in the Big Twelve and 82nd nationally.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><i>"This focus this week has to be 10 times better than it was last week. We have to be even more focused than were against Notre Dame because we cannot let TCU come in here and beat us. We have to continue with the intensity, we have to continue to be humble and hungry and everything we are doing. So the focus this week has to be at an all-time high because we have to win this game and not have a letdown." - <b>Linebacker Corey Nelson</b></i></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Quarterback Trevone Boykin had his best game of the season last week against SMU with 228 yards and two touchdowns through the air. Even at that, TCU ranks 9th in the conference and 94th nationally with an average of 200 passing yards per game. Brandon Carter has been a favorite target this season. The one time Sooner commit has a team high 13 receptions for 156 yards and is averaging 12 yards per catch.</p>
<p>The TCU offensive line has allowed five quarterback sacks in 2013 and are helping the team to a 4.1 yards per carry rushing average.</p>
<p>On paper you'd have to think that this match-up favors the Oklahoma defense. The Sooners are 2nd in the Big Twelve and 6th nationally in scoring defense at an average of 12 points allowed per game. OU is the top passing defense in the Big Twelve at an average 169 yards allowed per game. Opposing quarterbacks are completing just 48.6 percent of their passes against the Sooners and have thrown a combined six interceptions to two touchdowns.</p>
<p>Swapping sides of the ball, TCU has the Big Twelve's 8th best scoring defense (50th nationally) and are 8th in the conference against the pass (238 yards per game) and 3rd against the rush (115.8 yards per game).</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"It is really important. Every week is important. We do not want to lose so we have to be focused and get back on our grind. Even if we win, whomever we beat, we need to keep trying until we get to the championship." -<b><i>Offensive Lineman Daryl Williams</i></b></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Safeties Chris Hackett and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/114579/elisha-olabode">Elisha Olabode</a> lead the team in total tackles at 24 each. Olabode did not play last week due to an injury and his status for this game is uncertain as well. Sophomore defensive end <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/161275/devonte-fields">Devonte Fields</a> is also questionable for Saturday's game as well.</p>
<p>Regardless of the personnel, this TCU defense will present a stiff challenge to Oklahoma's rushing attack and will bring a secondary that specializes in forcing turnovers. The Frogs have nabbed a conference high nine interceptions against opponents this season and will be looking to force <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/players/115318/blake-bell">Blake Bell</a> into throwing his first pick of the season on Saturday.</p>
<h4>More from Crimson And Cream Machine:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/9/30/4787460/ou-oklahoma-sooners-football-notre-dame-fighting-irish-film-study?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">OU Football 2013 | Sooners vs. Notre Dame | Film Study</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/9/30/4787580/weekend-recap-big-twelve-football-taking-shape?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Weekend Recap: Big Twelve Taking Shape </a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/9/30/4787152/ou-oklahoma-sooners-football-2013-bob-stoops-notre-dame-tcu?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">OU Football 2013 | Bob Stoops Weekly Press Conference (ND/TCU)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/9/30/4786774/oklahoma-football-week-5-three-takeaways?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Oklahoma Football | Week 5 | Three Takeaways</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/9/30/4786162/ou-oklahoma-sooners-football-national-football-league-nfl-week-four?utm_source=crimsonandcreammachine&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Sooners In The NFL | Week Four</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2013/10/1/4789454/oklahoma-sooners-football-opponent-watch-tcu-horned-frogsM. Hofeld