Notes from Inside the Program

Charles Walker image from Scout.com & Baker Mayfield image from Amarillo.com

Many of you have heard some high praise about defensive lineman, Charles Walker. In fact yesterday he was mentioned a couple times as someone who Oklahoma expects to really contribute this coming year.

We’ve got some interesting notes and very high praise from a current NFL scout who recently saw him working out, doing drills, one-on-ones, etc. The scout was at Oklahoma to look at other players, but it was hard for him not to notice Charles Walker. This is the gist of what the NFL scout said:

– The scout flat out said that Charles Walker is the best looking prospect on Oklahoma’s campus.

– He also said that if there is a first round type player at Oklahoma right now…it’s Charles Walker

– He was really impressed with his combination of size and explosiveness. His quickness at that size is extremely rare, but he also added that, unlike a lot of big quick guys, Charles actually has a lot of flexibility as well.

– He said his athleticism is “off the charts.” The scout said that Charles Walker has the versatility that the NFL looks for. He’s literally a guy that can play comfortable in an even or odd front. He’s as big as most 3 techniques in an even front would be, but he’s going to be playing a little further from the ball at the 4i (which is where Ace saw him play in fall camp).

– The scout kept reiterating how unbelievably explosive Walker is. He said his only weakness is that because of his ability to get off the ball and penetrate gaps, he’ll have to be careful about getting too far up-field and overrunning the play (something we saw Torrea Peterson do quite a bit). But this scout said as Walker gains experience and grows in his technique there is really no telling how good he can be. He could be unstoppable.

– We’ll just add that this coincides with much of what Ace said when he saw him a number of times in fall camp. And it certainly coincides with what we’ve heard from OU players and coaches. However, it’s still all the more interesting to hear it form an NFL scout that wasn’t even there to see him. In the end, the field will be the true test of what he can be but he’s certainly getting high praise from just about every direction right now.

– Many of you heard that Oklahoma announced Texas Tech transfer QB Baker Mayfield will walk on at Oklahoma. Well, Baker has actually already been playing 7-on-7 with the Oklahoma players. The school/coaches cannot be involved in that so it’s completely player initiated. But Mayfield has been taking part in these scrimmages.

– What’s really interesting is how much the Oklahoma players…and more specifically the defensive players…really like Baker. They feel like Baker is not only talented, but he’s also got that swag or that moxie that you look for in a quarterback or a leader. Now no one is saying he’s going to dethrone King Knight (trademarked it just now!), but the players feel like he will be an excellent back up.

– An interesting little thing that happened that really helped earn the respect of the players was in one particular scrimmage there was a lot of trash being talked between the offense and the defense. Baker refused to back down. Even though he’s the new guy, he stood his ground. Well after a while things starting getting pretty chippy between some of the offensive and defensive players and the heat started getting a little too hot, which isn’t uncommon for great competitors. Guess who stepped in and cooled things down? Baker Mayfield. It seems that also went a long way with a lot of the players.

Baker and Charles are just two of the many players we can’t wait to get a look at in the spring.

134 Comments

  • Steve Johns says:

    Another great write up, you guys are the best!

  • ohiosoonerdevildog says:

    Wow. You guys are BY far the best site fot OU football. You guys definitely feed my OU hunger all the way here in Ohio. Must say I am glad I followed Jordan here. Kudos to you guys a thousand times for running such a classy and informative site.

  • bmrsnr says:

    Any idea on when Mayfield will become eligible?

  • BD says:

    Once again, the Braniacs deliver on excellent content! Keep it up, fellas

  • ohiosoonerdevildog says:

    Now will we still see the 3-3-5 defense,or with the emergence of someone like Walker could we see a more 4-3 look,or could we become a multiple look defense? With Striker,Bond,Tapper,and Grissom crashing the edges,do we sit one of them every now and then? I mean my god it seems like Stoops has every gift in the world to build a nasty defense. Can someone fast forward until August?

    • Jordan Esco says:

      I think you’re going to continue to see the 3-4/3-3-5 we saw this year w/ the coaches continue to expand/experiment w/ how they can mix it up as they (and the players) continue to get experience w/ it.

      • ohiosoonerdevildog says:

        Just seems like the first time in awhile we have had all these weapons on defense and some that might have a hard time seeing the field. I think this defense has a chance to be elite the next few years and its been awhile since I have had that feeling. Who do you think replaces Lynn and Colvin in the secondary?

      • Josh says:

        I think this D will continue to diversify as guys mature and get more comfortable in the schemes and as we continue to get these more versatile type players. Plus like cover corners, you can NEVER have too many quality DLinemen. Look at what Auburn was able to do with their D, constantly being able to shuffle in fresh bodies along the LOS. Having fresh legs out on the field to rush the passer in the Big12 is going to be huge!!

      • Doobie74OU says:

        I think you are definitely right about the 3-4/3-3-5. We got guys like Ndulue that have the size, speed, and athleticism to play DE/DT that give them the ability to play bigger against power running teams. Could even play a guy like Walker at Rush OLB to give it a 4-3 feel out of a 3-4 look! Great Athletes give Great Coaches, Great Options!

        • Sonny Schovanec says:

          Flexible. That’s why Parker was a huge get. He can do a ton of different stuff in the back end. Size and strength as a run stopper from an alley safety and athleticism of a cover corner

    • Sonny Schovanec says:

      3/4 for sure. I think their odd stack is an adjustment.

      • ohiosoonerdevildog says:

        I jist didnt know if maybe they would throw in some looks with Phillips and Walker both at dt, maybe against better running teams. With the power of Phillips and explosiveness of Walker that could be an absolutely devastating tandem. Then throw in our plethora of edge rushers, and lookout big 12.

        • Sonny Schovanec says:

          I’m sure they will tinker with personnel in their “Big Set” adjustments. But they were specific in their recruitment of player to fit the 3/4 so I’m sure they are basing everything out of an Odd front.

          • ohiosoonerdevildog says:

            I hope so. Im really excited for this defense for the next few years thats for sure.

  • CoachStauder says:

    Mayfield will be a redshirt junior in 2015…the first time he is eligible to play. Will be interesting if he can beat out Thomas by then. Thomas, by far, has the better tools, imo. With the recent news at QB, I have jumped on board with Mayfield walking-on. If Thompson and Bell were still in the picture I wouldn’t be much for it.

  • Alex Ehlers says:

    Hopefully Walker plays like a former D-lineman from the Stoops-Era that wore #97. 😉
    Another solid write-up guys! I don’t comment much but I read every article you guys post. keep up the superb work fellas.

  • Jerry Reid says:

    Im ready for spring ball!

  • Sonny Schovanec says:

    Walker is a good example of coaches doing their diligence listening to high school coaches and film evaluation rather then listening to what recruiting gurus have to say about kids.

  • dahldennsull says:

    Definitely impressed by Walker and can’t wait to see him in the spring. I worry about him being any kind of all potential guy with injuries involved, he missed two years of HS and had an up and down senior year due to shoulder injury I believe. Coaches saw enough talent though and glad we got him. Usually proper nutrition and workout regiment he gets at OU will severely reduce any small injury potential of kids because their bodies are so much more prepared, but with this kids ceiling, I just hope he hits it.

    Sad to say, Look at the last 8 years or so, who is the most dominant D-lineman we’ve had outside of GK? The results have gone down quite a bit, with 1 guy really being the lone results. That’s very unlike OU and it’s seeming like we could get back to the good ol days with Phillips (hopefully healthy), Walker, and Tapper being a potential VERY scary three down front to throw at teams.

    • Coach_AElliott says:

      Alexander, Beal, The Hammer, McCoy… Just off the top of my head.

      • dahldennsull says:

        While all good players in their own right, I would only put Beal in that category as someone teams would gameplan against. Alexander was awfully inconsistent for his talent and size, the Hammer was never properly used (would have been amazing in this defense) and I mentioned McCoy. Just showing that while not only have the guys been rare, they’ve also usually been alone where teams can focus on them. We could get back to the level where all three guys on the line can hurt you if you focus too much attention in one spot

        • Sonny Schovanec says:

          I bet McCoy made OC’s livers suffer game planning after watching his film. He had an outstanding year in the league this year.

    • Steve Johns says:

      Tommy Harris was a beast

      • dahldennsull says:

        Tommy Harris was over a decade ago.

        • Steve Johns says:

          “the last 8 years or so” would put him in the group, right?

          • dahldennsull says:

            I specifically said 8 years because I didn’t want to get back to the national championship teams of 03 and 04. Harris finished in 03 which was OVER a decade, so even further. I wasn’t even trying to get close to him, let alone the Dan cody’s and such. Sorry I worded it weird, but shows even more how rare it’s been since those dominate d-line days of 01-04

          • Steve Johns says:

            Montgomery will have them stockpiled within 2 years. I get what you mean though.

  • AlexOU says:

    Great to hear about Walker, continues all other reports. Don’t sleep on Wade guys, after all he did just hold own and then some against all world Bama line for big win…with little or no relief. No small task. Just sayin.

    • Sonny Schovanec says:

      Reminds me of where Stonewall Jackson got his nick name at the Battle of Bull Run. “stood there like a stonewall”. Stonewall Wade.

  • soonerborn says:

    I spoke to Mr. Walkers personal trainer last year. He said to be on the watch for him. Said he was underrated. Said for a big man he had the quickest feet he had seen.

  • Adrian says:

    We could have an amazing Defense if our D-line continues to improve from where they left off. Tapper, Wade, Phillips, Walker, Dimon, Ward, Grissom..If that isn’t quality depth, idk what is. I need football season again!!

  • James D-Space says:

    Nice story… thanks for sharing.
    A real quick question: will we see Alex Ross play any significant minutes this season? I know we are lOADED at RB, but I’m just curious where he falls in the new rotation. Special Teams on KO returns at the very least?

    • dahldennsull says:

      Cale Gundy talked him up in the press conference yesterday, saying the bowl practices were great for him, and this spring will be very important.

      Think he just needs to get the mental side down and he can be a great asset for us because his talent is off the charts. Will be an interesting spring because he will only be splitting with Ford, and here and there Smith and Brooks. Should have every chance to prove himself worth of contributions.

    • SoonerfanTU says:

      Someone will be the odd man out. Not enough carries for Ford, Ross, Mixon, and Perine, I wouldn’t think.

      • dahldennsull says:

        I would hope our coaches are wise to notice this as well, and spend a redshirt on someone like Perine. With that many horses in the stable, unless he bypasses everyone there is no way he gets more than 20 carries for the whole year. In my opinion that would be a waste. It’s unlike this year when we knew we were graduating 3 seniors, so every carry would make a difference for Ford in prep for the next year. However, you need to space these kids out a bit, so why not let Perine get a year difference. (Or mixon but I doubt he can’t show the ability to steal some carries)

    • soonermusic says:

      In the context of Ross, Gundy was quick to mention that talent and ability to run the ball are only part of what’s needs, being great at ball security, protecting the qb, understanding and executing assignments properly are equally important. We’ve certainly seen them abiding by that concept with rb’s. He said that Ross had improved dramatically during the bowl practices, and he was expecting him to do well.

  • dahldennsull says:

    Note: Deondre Clark isn’t announcing until 2 pm MONDAY…. haha I really don’t care about this kid anymore, his family is drama non-stop. If he somehow picks OU, I hope he checks it at the door and is ready to work over the next 4 years

    • soonerinks says:

      I would really love to have Clark but only with out all the baggage. Personally, I hope the young man goes to LSU and gets a fresh start. Too much water under the bridge at this point and he just needs to go somewhere he wants to go and get away from all the negatives, family issues and sports writers. Hope he does well but his new team (LSU) sucks.

  • James D-Space says:

    Ok that’s great to hear! Thank you for the update.

  • SoonerBredCD says:

    Great info guys! Best OU site in years!

  • Doobie74OU says:

    Sooner Scoop $99.95 a year! Sooner Illustrated $99.96 a year! OU Insider $107.40 a year! THE FOOTBALL BRAINIACS PRICELESS! And FREE! This site is my morning coffee! Thanks!

  • Perry Dickey says:

    I have been a message board junkie since 2003. When I would pose player questions about, the look in their eyes, how they carry themselves, how are they respected by their teammates, I was basically hooted down as such didn’t matter. This site proves different. Please keep us posted on the mettle of these young men. Great site which feeds my addictions! Boomer Sooner Baby!

  • Dlee914 says:

    Happy to have found this site. My first post, just wanted to say thanks and BOOMER!!

  • beavmiester says:

    High scoring offenses are exciting, but I prefer a smash mouth defense. Glad to see we’re moving towards the stingy defenses from the earlier Stoops era.

    • ohiosoonerdevildog says:

      I agree 100%. Give me a nasty junkyard defense, and a smashmouth power offense and Ill be happy.

    • Sonny Schovanec says:

      Amen Bro. I think Seattle proved that old cliché about defenses this year.

      • beavmiester says:

        ^^This.

        My dream player would be another Roy Williams. Someone much meaner than his size. In my opinion, one of the most exciting Sooners to watch ever.

  • James D-Space says:

    That’s kinda what I was thinking.

  • Indy_sooner says:

    Even before this, I have keenly interested in this Mayfield kid. Dude seems to be going out of his way to be here, presumably paying out of state tuition with no guarantee of a scholly.
    He also sounds like great character to be around regardless of whether or not he plays QB for us.

  • Kris Wood says:

    Any news on Dre Clark?

    • Sooner Ray says:

      He has his pony show set up for Monday afternoon at his HS

      • Kris Wood says:

        I seen that. The way he’s going about it is really turning me off of him, but he’s a guy we could really use. And I think 2adays practices would bring him down a few notches as far as his ego seems to be. Was just wondering if anyone has any inside info on which way he’s leaning more towards?

        • Sooner Ray says:

          There’s been so much trash and conflicting stories flying around that it’s anybodies guess. Personally I feel he’s going southbound but his momma might get to him over the weekend. Would not be shocked if his letter was already with LSU.

          • Kris Wood says:

            I’ve got the same feeling. If goes to LSU, then best of luck to him. Still think he would shine at OU though.

    • Fear The Magic says:

      I believe he rescheduled his announcement for this coming Monday to give him time to hire a marching band and set up a fireworks display.

    • Jordan Esco says:

      He’s signing w/ LSU.

      It’s dunzo.

    • Cory Reedy says:

      I am going to say this the nicest way possible…..at this point, WHO CARES!?!?!?
      I am SO over Clark.

  • Fresno Sooner says:

    Love the site thanks guys for all the great info and keeping us up to date on the latest was going to sign up for a pay site but found all the info right here for free

  • ccmosaic says:

    Great post and one reason I love this site. Thank you for this kind of information inside the ethos of the team. I love it.

  • boomer-d says:

    What position is Ward going to play? 4Tech DE or OLB?

  • Leroy Jenkins says:

    I was really skeptical when Baker enrolled at OU saying he wanted to walk-on. Looks like I’m being proven wrong. If he’s got the tools to succeed, sounds great to me. I still prefer Cody Thomas and Justice Hansen, but I trust Stoops.

    • SoCalSooner says:

      BM will be a quality proven backup for TK. CT and JH can use the year to develop

      • Sooner Ray says:

        BM can only practice, can’t step into a game until 2015 season, by then CT and JH should be ready for prime time. I think Bell will still go at 2 unless CT has a good grasp of the system.

        • soonermusic says:

          In response to a direct question about whether Bell might still play or practice at qb, Heupel said Bell is “all in at TE” and indicated there are no plans for him at qb.

          • Sooner Ray says:

            Could be but I remember when they said the same thing to Paul Thompson.

          • soonermusic says:

            Yeah, that was the exact context of the question. Heupel spoke of the Thompson situation and drew a direct contrast. (pretty interesting exchange, I thought–the whole deal starts at 6 min and the specific question is at 6:20 into the presser)

  • Harold Tyler says:

    Just registered, loos lie a fun place to be a part of!

  • Derek Hill says:

    For a Sooner fan exiled in Oregon, this site is a blessing. Thanks for all your hard work and insight.

    • Sooner Ray says:

      Welcome but don’t be making duck sounds!

    • Derek Hill says:

      No worries. Far from it. Still listening to Duck fan excuses as to how we didn’t get homered last time we were in Eugene.

      • SoonerGoneEast says:

        I was out there for the game. The majority of Duck fans were embarrassed and apologetic about the way things went down. They’re much more full of themselves today than they were 7 or 8 years ago.

    • Jordan Esco says:

      Keep repping the crimson and cream out west, Derek!

  • soonersd says:

    First time poster and just want to re-iterate what has already been posted numerous times… LOVE this site. Refreshing to read here after following several other sites over the years. Thank you and keep up the great work!

  • What? says:

    ghdjdj

  • Shelby is a Patriot says:

    Love the attitude and excitement of OU Football going into 2014. Good things to come!

    • Sooner Ray says:

      They’re getting that swagger back!

    • Big Higg says:

      Wish we could get something going to try & fill the stadium for the spring game. The other big schools have pretty big turn outs don’t they? We need to get out & show some support to keep the momentum going. I mean the tickets are ridiculously cheap.

      • Shelby is a Patriot says:

        It would be a 7 hour trip for me, but I’d love to see an OU spring game, not to mention just the stadium! I definitely would like to see us fill it for the spring game!

  • Ballard says:

    What is the brainiacs take on how the secondary looks to start the year? Seems like mike stoops has a lot of options.

  • territorysooner says:

    K, with so many kids returning along with signing a couple of kids in the new class who are expected to receive immediate playing time, it appears like there really won’t be a lot of battles for starting spots . Could you give a list of positions that you think are truly up for grabs and who you think is competing for the starting job?

  • Tim A says:

    Tremendous insight – always great to hear what is really going on! Thank you.

  • hOUligan says:

    Don’t know if this scout has watched much of Phillips, who is also crazy athletic. Then there’s Tap, another basketball guy just getting his chops down. This dline is about to be sick with those 3. Add Striker on the edge. Can’t double team them all.

  • David Lee says:

    this is the best website for sooner football- hands down- keep up the great work!