Stock report: QBs have their moments
Stock report: QBs have their moments

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Published: August 12, 2007

Quarterbacks: Sam Bradford, Keith Nichol and Joey Halzle all had their moments. Each led the offense on a touchdown drive, although Bradford's came via a 53-yard touchdown run by Jacob Gutierrez.

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OU receiver Adron Tennell catches a pass during Saturday's scrimmage as linebacker Brandon Crow, right, defends. by Steve Sisney, The Oklahoman

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Nichol, however, showed some mobility that the other two didn't, breaking away for a couple of long scrambles.

But overall, the offense struggled to sustain drives against the defense.

Linebackers: Part of the reason the offense sputtered was because the defense played well, especially at linebacker.

Repeatedly, the linebackers and defensive ends sliced into the backfield, putting pressure on the quarterbacks.

"I think we played pretty good as a unit,” said middle linebacker Curtis Lofton. "I think (the linebackers) can be one of the strengths of this team.”

Other than Gutierrez's long touchdown run and Malcolm Kelly's acrobatic 20-yard scoring catch over Marcus Walker in the corner of the end zone, the defense limited big plays and didn't miss tackles.

Punters: For the first hour of the scrimmage, punters Michael Cohen and Mike Knall received the loudest ovations from the crowd of about 7,000 for their booming punts.

"I thought the kicking game was awesome,” said coach Bob Stoops. "I think it's going to really be a strong point for us this year, punting and kicking.”

Jacob Gutierrez: With starter Allen Patrick out with a right ankle sprain, the other running backs had an opportunity to shine.

Gutierrez made the most of his chance, leading all rushers with 68 yards on seven carries.

Gutierrez also produced the offensive highlight of the day with his 53-yard touchdown run.

By Jake Trotter