OU defense solid against Tulsa save three ‘busted' plays

Total defense is determined by yards allowed, but much of the Golden Hurricane's damage could be traced to three plays.

Led by quarterback G.J. Kinne, the Conference USA Player of the Year, TU's offense returned 10 starters from a unit that scored 44.1 points a game.

In the bottom line category, the Golden Hurricane scored only twice.

“The defense had an excellent night outside of three plays,” said coach Bob Stoops.

Tulsa's only first half score was a 56-yard Bryan Burnham touchdown reception when the Sooners busted coverage.

“That was one player busted the call,” Stoops said. “He read the signal wrong. That's what happens when you read the signal wrong when everyone else is doing something else.”

In the third quarter, Tulsa H-back Willie Carter broke loose for a 69-yard catch. Safety Javon Harris was the victim.

In the fourth quarter Carter shook loose for another 44-yard gain.

“It was just bad coverage,” Stoops said. “One guy just didn't turn up field when they turned up field.”

But overall Tulsa's high octane offense was held in check.

The Golden Hurricane compiled 400 yards. Nearly half (193) came on four plays.

Besides the three long gainers, TU scored on a 24-yard TD pass on a fourth down play in the fourth quarter when Trey Watts broke a couple of tackles.