Oklahoma Football: Brent Venables' Defensive Additions Shine As Sooners Dominate Spring Game

Early Defensive Returns

Brent Venables' first spring game as Oklahoma's head coach was a resounding success. The Sooners' defense, which struggled mightily in 2021, looked much improved under Venables' tutelage. The unit forced four turnovers and held the offense to just 10 points.

The Sooners' pass rush was particularly impressive. Defensive end Reggie Grimes had two sacks, while linebacker Danny Stutsman added another. The Sooners also forced three interceptions, including one that was returned for a touchdown by cornerback Woodi Washington.

The Sooners' defense is still a work in progress, but Venables' early returns are encouraging. The unit is much more aggressive and physical than it was last season. If the Sooners can continue to improve, they could be one of the top defenses in the Big 12 in 2022.

Key Defensive Additions

Venables made several key additions to the Sooners' defense this offseason, including:

• Reggie Grimes, defensive end: Grimes is a former five-star recruit who transferred to Oklahoma from Texas A&M. He is expected to be a major contributor to the Sooners' pass rush.
• Danny Stutsman, linebacker: Stutsman is a former four-star recruit who transferred to Oklahoma from Vanderbilt. He is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside.
• Woodi Washington, cornerback: Washington is a former five-star recruit who transferred to Oklahoma from Georgia. He is a physical cornerback who is expected to start opposite of D.J. Graham.

These additions have given the Sooners' defense a much-needed boost. The unit is now deeper and more talented than it was last season.

Defensive Outlook for 2022

The Sooners' defense has a lot of potential in 2022. The unit is led by several experienced players, including Graham, linebacker David Ugwoegbu, and safety Key Lawrence. The Sooners also have a number of talented newcomers who could make an immediate impact.

The Sooners' defense will be tested early in the season, as they open the year with a game against Nebraska. The Cornhuskers have a talented offense led by quarterback Adrian Martinez. However, the Sooners should be able to handle the Cornhuskers if their defense continues to play at a high level.

The Sooners' defense could be one of the best in the Big 12 in 2022. The unit has a lot of talent and experience, and it is well-coached by Venables. If the Sooners' defense can continue to improve, they could be a major factor in the Big 12 title race.