Four questions: true verdict awaits
Four questions: true verdict awaits

Published: September 3, 2007

What did Oklahoma really gain in a 79-10 win over North Texas?

Not a lot, but the offense, especially freshman quarterback Sam Bradford, gained some confidence. You couldn't wipe the smile off Bradford's face during postgame interviews — and that was two hours after he took his final snap.

Of course, offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson pointed out that North Texas ran a fairly basic defensive coverage that allowed for certain plays, like the receiver screen passes, to work well.

But Bradford made all the throws he was asked to make, and he engineered the offense, calling proper audibles when necessary.

Should the Sooners be concerned by DeMarco Murray's difficulties in running up the middle?

Not really. It was good experience for Murray to have to pound the ball inside the tackles, which really isn't the strength of his game. With the way North Texas defended, crowding eight or nine players near the line of scrimmage, running in the middle was going to be tough anyway.

Plus, the Sooners were without their two best inside runners, Allen Patrick (sprained ankle) and Chris Brown (suspension). Both should be back next week, which will make the Sooners more effective running between the tackles.

Why did the coaches decide to play both backup quarterbacks rather than redshirt one of them?

The coaching staff never had any plans to redshirt either of the backup quarterbacks, Joey Halzle or Keith Nichol. It's possible they're not sure yet who is their second-best quarterback. Halzle is a little steadier than Nichol right now, but Nichol has more potential to develop into the better player of the two.

So it's possible that by the middle of the season, Nichol will be the No. 2 quarterback.

Who's No. 35?

The Sooners made a handful of number changes prior to Saturday's game, and because of the lopsided outcome, most of those players got in the game, causing some confusion for fans who were relying on the game program.

Redshirt freshman tailback Derek Gove switched from No. 41 to No. 35, which had been worn by receiver Carter Whitson in the preseason. Whitson changed to No. 81, formerly worn by Fred Strong, who has left the team.

Tight ends Ryan Allgood and Kolby Smith changed from Nos. 86 and 89, respectively, to Nos. 58 and 60.

By Scott Wright

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