But they might not have noticed that the guy who popped Oklahoma State's quarterback — OU defensive end Jeremy Beal — played pretty well the rest of the game, too.
A redshirt freshman from Carrollton, Texas, Beal knew Saturday was going to be the first start of his career, a long way from where he started the year as a third-string defensive end.
"For such a young guy, he really came on and did some really good things,” OU head coach Bob Stoops said.
Defensive ends John Williams, Auston English and Alan Davis were out of Saturday's game because of injuries suffered at various times this season. So Beal's performance came just when his team needed it.
Beal had 10 tackles in 10 games prior to Saturday, but accounted for five stops against OSU.
Beal helped provide a consistent pass rush that the Sooners had lacked in two previous games without sophomore English, the Big 12 Conference sacks leader.
But it took some time for Beal to settle in.
"Anytime you get your first start in college football, you're gonna be anxious,” Beal said "But I calmed down after the first couple plays. I got into a groove and felt pretty good.
"I didn't play to the best of my ability, but I played good for my first start.”
By Scott Wright
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well put steve ,im gladbeal stepped up ou really needed that.i was worried about that postion.i hope the defence and the run game keep it up for the mizzo game. BOOMER SOONER!!!!!!!!!!
Beal had a good game. I can only trust that more snaps means more consistent and better play from him. Man, I hope Auston can get it together and get back on the field. It would be nice to have as many weapons as possible going into San Antone.
The coaches made a few mistakes this season, but OU is again a top 10 team. They put them in a position to play in the NC game twice! The majority of the players are young, and they will be better next year.
Lawerence, Oklahoma City - Nov 25, 2007 at 9:20 pm
so Steve, please elaborate. So players are not accountable to themselves. Their performance is solely based upon the ability of a coach to motivate them. If so, I dont want that player.
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