Redshirt freshman linebacker Travis Lewis may not always be seen on the field, but he's almost always heard. Where Rufus Alexander, Curtis Lofton and Ryan Reynolds were quiet leaders in the Sooner defense, Lewis is breaking the mold by breaking the silence. Here, he discusses lessons learned, making noise and how Brent Venables' spring knee injury has affected the team.
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You had a pretty big Spring Game with seven tackles. Are you starting to feel comfortable in this defense?
My confidence is growing every day. I mean, I'm not overconfident. I still have a lot to learn obviously, but it's getting there. When you get experience, things are more natural. You don't have to think as much. You can just do your thing.
Are you more relaxed since Brent Venables' knee injury keeps him from running out onto the field and getting in your face?
He still does a little bit. We've seen him hobbling out there toward us and we're like, ‘Oh no.' But we do get to be more relaxed and concentrate on the play. (Venables) says it's always about being in exactly the right place at the right time. It gets smoother the more we do it, when we're not worried about the wrath.
You've got a big voice. Where does that come from?
I don't know. That's just how I've always been. I mean, it's definitely my style. I'm not quiet with anything I do. Some of the other guys are quiet, but they still lead.
Who are you taking the most direction from right now? Are you giving any?
We're all pretty young, so we all pretty much help each other out. Ryan (Reynolds) has shown me so much because he played my position last. He knows how to do it. He's like the expert. He helps me out and I soak it in.
Compiled by Blake Jackson
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OU has not had a vocal defense since the 2002 season. I think a lot of that has to do with Venables not allowing players to get comfortable enough with themselves. Maybe his knee injury will be the key to OU getting back to big show. BOOMER!
Communication is so important on defense. Keep up the chatter and remember to let loose and have more fun than the other team. You do that, you'll win. BOOMER SOONER!
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