OU Football Practice Notes 8.12.15 (QB Specific)

Image via OU Football Facebook

Have received a few notes over the past day or two that we wanted to pass along. Many of you had asked that we try and get some quarterback notes and, fortunately, we were able to do so.

– On Monday we got word that Cody Thomas and Trevor Knight were getting more 1st team QB reps at the moment compared to Baker Mayfield. And I have been told, in no uncertain terms, “it’s still a three man race.”

Which is exactly what Bob Stoops has maintained for weeks now, so you might be asking why we’re even bothering to mention it. Well if you’ve paid any attention to things, you know the overwhelming presumption of the masses is that it’s simply a foregone conclusion that Mayfield is going to be the starter.

And that could certainly still prove to be how things play out. But at the moment, according to what I’ve been told, it’s a legitimate competition and the assumption that it has to be Mayfield at QB1 right now would be a premature one.

– I asked my source why it was Mayfield seemed to be getting fewer first team reps, and was told he is still playing catch up from having limited reps early in fall camp (as mentioned before because of his shoulder issue/fatigue, it sounds like the coaches wanted to ease him in slowly at first)

But perhaps most importantly we were told that Mayfield is “really, really good, but he tries to force it sometimes.” And as we all know, Bob Stoops, like most coaches, puts a priority on taking care of the football. Which is especially important when you’re a team like OU, that has the weapons they do at the skill positions. In this offense, with those weapons, you really shouldn’t have to take a lot of risks with the football, in theory.

– On Monday, when I asked a source who had the most turnovers of all the quarterbacks thus far, I was told that it was “probably Mayfield.” Was also told that up to this point, Knight had the fewest number of turnovers.

– Yesterday the team had two practice sessions, and I was told that Cody Thomas actually took the most reps with the first team, followed by Knight and then Mayfield. I was cautioned, however, to “not read too much into it.”

– That said, related to the point above, I was also told Mayfield threw three interceptions yesterday.

– Having said all of the above, I have been told this QB race is far from over and remains a tight competition. I was told that based on where things stand as of right now, any one of the three could be the starter if the season opener were today.

But perhaps the biggest surprise to many may be the fact that, at least based on what we are hearing, Cody Thomas has legitimately asserted himself into this competition and is being given a real shot from OC Lincoln Riley and the staff to win the QB1 job. That hasn’t just been coach speak from Stoops. Thomas has made some real strides compared to what many remember seeing from him last year.

255 Comments

  • Jeremy Phillips says:

    Nice..
    ?

  • Sooner Born N Bred says:

    Finally some PRACTICE NOTES!!! I’m about to break the F5 key on my keyboard this morning from refreshing so much.

  • Zack says:

    Good for Cody to be getting a real chance. However I’m sticking with my prediction that knight will be the starter day one. I have a feeling mayfield will require surgery and may be able to put it off until the off season

  • Troyce Lewis says:

    I’m rooting for Cody to win the job!

    • Jesse says:

      Personally I have been 50/50 on Knight and Mayfield but as of the last week or so I myself have started to jump on the Thomas bandwagon

      • Troyce Lewis says:

        Imo he showed flashes last season, and I also think he has the most upside of the 3

        • Jesse says:

          I believe he has more upside as well. We can only wait to see. At the beginning of summer it was all about Mayfield and Knight and Thomas quietly has improved I think the longer the competition goes the better chance Thomas has. If he keeps improving with the strides he has to this point from what we are hearing from TFB Thomas could very easily pass both by the end of this.

          • SoonerOracle737 says:

            I’m in the CT has the most upside camp too. He has all the physical tools you would want in this system.

  • Corey Muller says:

    If you would have told me after the TCU game that next season’s QB race would be between Knight and Thomas, I’d have called you crazy. But as for now, let them fight.

  • Bob Edwards says:

    Yay, we can talk about football now.

  • Bob Edwards says:

    But, but, but, everyone on the Interwebs knows that TK9 is the one who throws all the interceptions. Mayfield is perfect. TFB must be wrong. The Interwebs says so.

  • Jason Vos says:

    You guys thought I was playing when I said, watch out for that boy Cody Thomas multiple times. Arm strength is a big factor trust me, when you can throw the ball from number to number

    People also forget he ran this offense in high school. Same offense that gave him a 95 rating by 247 and 4 Star Rivals rating. So it makes sense that he looks really good in it because that’s what he ran when he was so highly ranked in recruiting

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6R8YfTGPlCU

    • Brad Warren says:

      I like Thomas as well. I think he’s a big time talent with a big arm.

    • Randy says:

      The one thing I’ve noticed in Thomas’ favor is his baseball background it seems like a lot of the good air raid QBs can throw at all different angles and with his strong arm that can’t hurt..

    • Fear The Magic says:

      A lot of posters have been talking Cody up Jason. Not just you.

      • guest says:

        Cody is taller, he has more arm strength and he is more accurate than Knight and Mayfield. Stoops should make shocking headlines and make him the starter?

    • Defend Colfax says:

      I really like his size and arm strength. Hopefully he can get the mechanics down because with the others hovering around 6ft, it’d be nice to have a taller QB. I’m not against a shorter QB but I think in this offense taller is ideal.

    • Birddawg says:

      I agree. 🙂

    • Nate Broadus says:

      I couldn’t fully enjoy the video until I put some music on while I watched.

      This: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gs56u-kSmto

      Just works.

    • OUhound says:

      I like some of those receivers!!!! Nice routes and some speed to boot.

      • guest says:

        Things are getting scary in a good way in OU land. The Sooners have superstars, potential superstars, or “proven solids” at every position (except kickers?) More importantly, they are actually thinking and playing as a “team” rather than individually gifted players, and they seem very hungry this year. I predict a showdown between OU/Ohio State in post-season.

    • paganpink says:

      I remember EasTx raving about him when he watched him in High school as well. Then he looked like a different person when he hit the field last year, even though he was one of the best QB’s to come out of Texas in a long time. It wouldn’t surprise a lot of folks if the light finally comes on for Cody. And a new scheme and a new offensive coach may well make that happen.

  • Randy says:

    The coaches are telling and speaking the truth just nobody wants to listen..

  • wolfbuilder says:

    Don’t really care who wins the job just want to win games, could care less how it looks, as for the TK and CT they have to get better, it’s hard to play much worse

  • Jason Vos says:

    If they are all even with no clear leader by game 1, Trevor Knight will be the starter

  • MoJoOkie says:

    It makes me nervous when there isn’t an obvious starter at QB. Having three QBs usually means you don’t have one.

    • Bob Edwards says:

      I am not concerned when it is that way in practice. When we play three because we can’t make up our mind, that is when I am concerned. Or four like John Blake did one time.

      • MoJoOkie says:

        Kind of what I mean. To me, this is getting late in the game, especially with a new offense. I’m sure Lincoln knows what he’s got, but if he knows who’s who, shouldn’t that one be getting the reps to prepare for the season? Just concerns me a little, as I see QB being the make or break for a successful season.

        • Bob Edwards says:

          A lot of time they don’t pick starters until the week before the first game. That’s when they start actual game prep. If during game prep two guys are getting equal reps then you may have a problem. Right now they may just be giving each a shot with the ones so they can finish the evals.

          • Fear The Magic says:

            Another possibility is that maybe they know that TK will be the starter but realizing how injury prone he is they want the others to be equally ready.
            I know that theory is out of left field but who knows.

          • MoJoOkie says:

            Yeah, I could see that. Be nice to have two guys waiting in the wings who already know the system and the personnel.

          • Bob Edwards says:

            No I believe the coaches when they say every position is open to competition. They mean that. However, in practice there are just some players that aren’t going to be beat out. If Landry Jones had out performed Sam Bradford his freshman year he would have started. It simply was not going to happen.

            In this case, I believe that the three are close enough that anyone of them could start. In the case of a tie I think TK9 will get the start, because of his experience and Bob prefers to reward time in the program. But he is not far enough ahead (if he is ahead) to be guaranteed the spot.

          • KJ1123 says:

            I’m leaning toward BE, I mean FTMs theory makes send but I just think it would cause to much of a QB carousel type scenario. IMO, they know who “the guy” is already. They want to see who is going to bust their butt to beat that guy out in camp, who wants it more.

          • Fear The Magic says:

            Im leaning towards BE as well. I just put that out an alternate possibility.
            Trust me FTM’s theorys are usually wrong lol.

          • Bob Edwards says:

            Oh, I think they know who the guy is likely going to be. They just want to make sure everyone gets a chance to prove them wrong.

          • MoJoOkie says:

            I’m a lean to as well. *Failed attempt at word humor*

          • SoonerOracle737 says:

            If it is a tie TK9 gets the nod. I’m hoping that Cody Thomas wins it outright, but will certainly cheer for whomever takes the reigns.

        • Could be and could be he does not know who #2 and #3 are, thus the allowing CT more reps than Mayfield.

    • Defend Colfax says:

      Riley is smart enough to know what he has in all 3. I see them dragging out the competition to see what they can get out of the guys.

      • Defend Colfax says:

        I really think with the spacing this offense gives you and the athletes we have everyone is going to look more open more often. QB isn’t a big concern to me, I really hope we are ready in the trenches.

      • SoonerOracle737 says:

        Except Riley stated in his interview on SoonerSports that he wanted to decide on THE guy pretty soon so they can tailor stuff to his strengths & weaknesses. It sounded like the decision would be coming soon.

    • Glocal Sooner says:

      Depends on the team and players. I’d say Ohio St has 3 QB’s. We haven’t proven yet that we have a consistent QB1 but maybe they’ll surprise us. No doubt the QB with the most turnovers won’t be starting in week 1 though.

      • MoJoOkie says:

        The reason you quickly cite O-State is because they are the anomaly. Very seldom do teams have even two QBs that are serviceable. My thoughts regress to when Jamille took over for Troy. So there are examples. Just not frequent.

    • SCSooner87 says:

      Bradfords first year was an open QB battle. I wouldn’t read into it too much.

  • SoonerfanTU says:

    My thoughts:

    1. I think most fans haven’t been penciling in Mayfield as the starter since his injury.
    2. If he is STILL throwing that many interceptions and forcing the football, I can tell you it won’t be him that wins the job. I’ll go one step further…..at this point, I bet it’s not him. And he may have to worry about not even being the primary backup.
    3. I think Thomas would have to be considerably (or noticeably) better than the other two to win the job out of camp. It just creates a weird dynamic to start a younger, less experienced kid that might be better.

    After saying all of that, if Knight is throwing the ball well, learning the offense, and taking care of the ball, I’d just about bet on him being the starter. He probably deserves a shot under a new OC, presuming the other two guys aren’t decidedly better.

    I’m guessing we’ll need more than 1, and maybe more than 2, QB’s to make it thru the season though. It’s a good problem to have.

  • JB says:

    Future prediction: Mayfield starts getting more reps at QB1, and by end of fall camp gets most of them and is named starter by the end, TK#2, CT#3.

  • KJ1123 says:

    Yesterday they had a mini live session. There were alot of 3 and outs and picks. At least one of the picks was pressure related though….it’s a work in progress but it’s coming along and there’s still alot of camp left. The OL needs to pick it up imo. Nothing is going to run correctly unless they gel quickly.

  • BoomSoon says:

    Was told yesterday was a chance for guys to either step up RE position battles or be left behind…Cody had been getting reps behind the other two I was told and yesterday was his chance to shine and he looked good. Also heard Knight looked good…not as many big plays as Cody but utilized the TEs quite often and led at least one long TD drive. I too heard Mayfield has been throwing quite a few picks and having balls batted at the line…things people tend to believe only happen to TK. Maybe TK is finally getting it…less chances, not being afraid to check down and when needed utilize his legs when nothing is there.

    • Super K says:

      Good notes Boom! Sounds like some stuff that Brandon had heard as well. Thanks!

    • Sooner Born N Bred says:

      I hope that is the case with TK. He is one of those guys that you want to see succeed because he is a leader and a good person. I think having a new OC and a fresh perspective are really going to help TK an CT. From some of the rumors I have read Heupel had a tendency to be very negative and condescending. So hopefully Riley’s new perspective and new system allow these guys to get better and build confidence. I think if you put some confidence in TK and allow him to play and lead without any restraints we might see more of that guy from the Sugar Bowl.

      • Daryl says:

        I heard the same about Heupel. One guy I know close to program said that Josh never owned a downfall ever. He actually said that Josh truly believed his poop smelled like roses.

        Loved him as a QB but not sure about OC especially at OU with pressure he had with being a former player and having family members in top leadership. Might be good for him to go to a place where he is not really known and just be himself.

    • SoonerinLondon says:

      We are QB-challenged.

  • Jason Vos says:

    Baker Mayfield is a gamer, his best game is done on the field. Trevor Knight is the opposite, great in practice but not so much in games.

    • L'Carpetron Dookmarriot says:

      Provide evidence of Baker’s “gamerness”, please.

    • MoJoOkie says:

      That COULD be the result of game management/playcalling though.

    • L'Carpetron Dookmarriot says:

      You upvoted your own post. We’ve addressed this with others ’round hyuh. No bueno.

      • Defend Colfax says:

        That’s like his thing.

      • TheFuerte says:

        Could have been a slip of the finger. I think I’ve downvoted while trying to hit reply. I like a poster with the confidence to upvote himself. Shows moxy and gamerness.

      • stan H says:

        Jason, had to check and see if you up vote yourself, will it show your name. Thanks Jason for keeping the rest of from making the same mistake

    • Daryl says:

      I don’t disagree that Trevor has wowed in practice and has been nothing but inconsistent in practice. But to say that Mayfield is a gamer I think is a bit of a stretch. He has never played consistently infront of 90k fans and his numbers show that when he played the best he was not a gamer. He was terrible but I wouldn’t put the gamer tag on him just yet.
      https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/3fbfca05908f136fbea607d789e38cb5f5d7bc929f184918184ed2ae2f6856b9.jpg

    • Interesting observation. I would see it as Trevor was tied up by the coaching staff last year that did not allow him to perform as he did in the AL game. Also, could maybe be that Trevor listens to the coaches more when it comes to ball security and Mayfield doesn’t.

    • D Hunter Sanchez says:

      I think the question is: do we need a game manager that does not turn it over too often or a gunslinger that puts more points up, but has more turnovers? I think a starter will emerge, but if we do not go up and down the field against Akron there may be some controversy going into Knoxville. Of the three, I think Thomas is most likely to have a 40 TD to 10 int ratio which could put us in the playoffs.

  • Jason Vos says:

    OU among 5 schools that will get an official visit from stud WR Tyrie Cleveland

  • Jason Vos says:

    Just glad the defense at least has a pulse

  • Nate Broadus says:

    I don’t for a second judge Cody Thomas based on his performance last year. He was thrown into a dumpster fire, with little-to-no chance to succeed (no Shepard, defense gave up, expected to run a Gemini offensive scheme, etc.).

    I see every reason in the world to give him a clean slate.

    • EasTex says:

      I’ll never forget the first action CT saw last year with KSt. Knight got hurt early, went to the locker room and came back later. Meanwhile, CT took the offense straight down the field and scored, he even made a remarkable play with his feet after a bad snap.
      The advantage was he didn’t have time to think about, just go play ball. He didn’t have a week of JH filling his head with too much useless info to cloud his judgment.

      • Cush Creekmont says:

        Yes, he did pretty well that day. But when he had the full prep, whew did he (and his helping coaches) struggle…

        • EasTex says:

          Exactly, which is why I think this new system will be favorable to his skills.

        • Nate Broadus says:

          Josh Heupel was a legend as a Sooner player that will always keep a place in my heart.

          As an OC, his offenses were where QB’s came to die.

          • sooner4ever says:

            I still believe that Josh thought every QB had the same football mentality that he has, and that’s where he came up short. He never considered that the players who came behind him just don’t have the same football IQ that he has. I may be totally off base, but that’s always been my perception.

  • Greg Merrell says:

    Not sure what type of Practice player Mayfield is. We know TK has been historically a good practice player, but not a great game day player. Thomas I believe is the wildcard with the most upside. His body of work is minimal at best

    • Bob Edwards says:

      I think a lot of us think that it is possible that the problems both TK and CT had were related to our exOC. We are willing to wait and see how things go with the new one.

  • Matt says:

    I heard someone describe Heupel’s offense as “we’re going to beat you at what YOU are good at.” Looking back on it, that is a very good description of it. All the way back to 2011 OSU…they can’t stop the run all year and we start out with 11 straight passes. Then Texas 2 years ago with the passing rather than Zone read…on and on and on and on…

    • Daryl says:

      I couldn’t have said this any better!

    • BigJoeBrown says:

      I remember that, I was thinking OU was going to run all over TX….Kansas ran for 170+ yards, Baylor then runs for 270+ yards, then OU comes in and barely breaks 100.

      That was one game, were Tejas took over in the second half and thankfully time ran out.

    • Sooner Redzone says:

      Really Heupel was all bout beating the other team at what the defense gave you. OSU was awful in run defense and stacked the line begging us to pass medium range to long range passés. At the sane time we were blitzed a lot. Football 101 absolutely dictated we could burn them. We couldn’t. But he did the same exact thing against Tech in Lubbock this year the first half. Stoops made him give Perine the ball anyway the second half and we exploded. But the problem is Heupel would not challenge defenss when they geared up to stop the run or pass he gave up and basically allowed them to take away our strength.

      • D Hunter Sanchez says:

        I believe you are correct. Nonetheless, Thomas didn’t perform well at all throwing the ball. I am not convinced it was JH fault.

        • James Gustina says:

          To be fair, he didn’t get a lot of help from the receivers. Even short wheel routes ended in a dropped pass it seemed like last year.

  • Lane Gilstrap says:

    I was rooting for Mayfield but I’m slowly starting to root for Cody Thomas now. Tall, strong arm, and has wheels. Bob compared him to Bradford. I’ll take that any day.

  • soonermusic says:

    I believe that the coaches are looking carefully at all three. I also think they may be looking for specific things that are not necessarily the same as the obvious results. So while one qb may look better than the other to an outside observer, the coaches may not have the identical view, because they may be looking at a particular dimension that day.

    If TK had been fabulous all last season, he wouldn’t be in a horse race for the starting position, but I still think that if it’s down to the wire, he’ll have the edge because of the “escapability” factor, which in his case is exceptional.

    Really great to hear the reports about Cody. Maybe these coaches do know how to evaluate qb talent after all…:-) At the very least, it sounds like he will be a very valuable component.

  • Ryan says:

    I’m finding myself sort of pulling for Knight and I have no idea why. Just 2 weeks ago I was out on him. I’m an emotional fan lol I just want us to be good dammit! Whoever wins the job please just be successful! Haha

    • Wolfdog says:

      Find myself in the same boat. Check back with me after the first pick six.

    • Fear The Magic says:

      Ideally you’d want to pull for the youngest guy (Cody) just because he’d have more years of eligibility but as Ive said before I dont really have a preference. Im just trusting that Riley will figure out whos best for the job.

    • Lincoln Hawk says:

      It may be because he just seems like a really good dude???

  • Clint says:

    I wouldn’t write any QB off based on what happened last season. The offensive system and offensive game-plans were a complete mess.

  • Chris White says:

    If Knoght is the starter they should just wait to announce to avoid the backlash and the critics on Social Media. Don’t want it to get in Knights head or slander thrown at Lincoln before week 1 where recruits can see so I would wait until Kickoff and we all see him run out…If it’s Mayfield or Cody then I can’t wait anymore and need to know by this weekend lol

    • Brad Warren says:

      Those are some badass shoes!

    • Austin says:

      I actually have a pair of those shoes. They are the ones from last year. They are some of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned, and they also have a way of catching people eye. I’ve gotten so many compliments and comments on them even from non-ou fans. Definitely buy them!

  • Jeff says:

    OU is 8-4 if PK6TK starts, put Thomas in and roll with it!

  • Sooner 76 says:

    Cody: Strengths: great arm strength and best height. Weakness: Poor mechanics last year and was very inaccurate.

    TK9: Strengths: great runner, good, but not great arm. Great practice player. Had some great games, some poor games, & some average games in two years here. Weaknesses: Poor field vision and forces the ball into coverage to the primary receiver resulting in game changing interceptions.(No, it WASN’T Josh’s fault, it was Trevor’s.)

    Mayfield: Strengths: has run a simlar offense; good but not great arm. Weaknesses: Had poor stats in some games at Tech. Forces the ball into coverage too often.

    I’m rooting for whoever takes care of the ball. One of them HAS to better than they’ve shown so far.

    • Soonerfandave84 says:

      I think Cody Thomas is the best passer of the bunch, he seemed very slow on reads last year though. If he’s caught up, I have no problem with him being the starter.

      • Sooner 76 says:

        I don’t have a problem with ANY of them being the starter if they have improved from their past performances.

        Just complete 60% and have the other 40% INCOMPLETE.

        • Soonerfandave84 says:

          INTs happen, as long as they aren’t terrible plays and are limited to 1/4 of the TD total it’s acceptable(not wanted but ya know). Baker might win a game with a throw, but he is just as likely to lose one with a force into coverage too.

      • boomersooner says:

        Yeah it’ll be fun to watch as the game slows down for him

    • KJ1123 says:

      Takes care of the ball…and who ever can hand the ball of the best.

    • D Hunter Sanchez says:

      Very fair. Thanks.

  • Will Narramore says:

    What gives me hope with Knight is look what happened with Boykin at TCU when Cumbie came in and they started going spread/air raid. He went from maybe the 8th best QB in the Big 12 to Top 5 nationally and he and Knight have similar skill sets as far as throwing ability and running ability

    • Soonerfandave84 says:

      While I see that transformation as possible, that was a very unique situation and can’t be expected to be the norm.

      • Will Narramore says:

        not saying he has to turn into a heisman candidate like Boykin but if Boykin can make that big of jump in 1 year with the help of an OC I think Riley’s brilliance can turn Trevor from a below average QB to above average QB. If we get above average QB play this team is dangerous

        • Soonerfandave84 says:

          Absolutely agree with that

        • EasTex says:

          I agree with you that the change in systems at TCU was to Boykin’s advantage. I also think that Boykin spending last summer working with a for hire QB guru was critical to his improved accuracy.

  • Sacramento Sooner says:

    I think it really is hard to judge where Knight & Thomas are, they were both under Heupel. As we saw with Landry, development of QB’s did not fair well once he became the OC. As much, at times, I feel like Mayfield may get the nod, it will be interesting to see how the other 2 develop under Riley. As has been overly-stated, look at Boykin, and what he did last year compared to previous years.

    • Walter Sobcek says:

      Having watched LJ at Pittsburgh, he doesn’t seem to have many strides there, either. Maybe it wasn’t as much Heupel as it is LJ.

      • Sacramento Sooner says:

        True…very true…I was hoping for far better performance than what he showed. Disappointing at best

  • Chris White says:

    Referring to the stuff on Twitter, what does it matter what you guys may say or don’t say on this site?? That’s the beauty of it. There’s no charge for the quality of info and if the information or stories or whatever is false (not saying it is because I have been on here since the site opened and this hasn’t happened) then who gives a D$&N?? It’s FREE! It’s literally football junkies talking to a bunch of football fans?!? Why hate on it? I love TFB

    • Jordan Esco says:

      what are you referring to exactly?

      • Chris White says:

        People saying you guys said K Thompson was the favorite when he was battling etc.

        • Jordan Esco says:

          Oh, gotcha. Well, I can’t speak for K but I would have said something b/c it was being used in a manner to mock TFB. And it wasn’t something TFB ever said considering the site didn’t even exist at the time. So I suppose in some way it was really more about defending TFB’s track record. Or at least that’s how I saw it.

    • Krys Allen says:

      I would imagine that it has something to do with putting in all the work that TFB does and having others just read your info and repeat it as their own. Its common courtesy to say “According to sources at TFB, the QB battle is blablabab”. Instead all of these hack jobs are saying “I have info that the QB battle is blaaldaf”. Its just a lack of integrity and it would irritate me too if I was the one putting in the work.

    • Super K says:

      Thanks Chris! It is odd the lengths someone who pays a subscription fee will go to discredit a site who has charged them nothing and who’s founder not only played for the team he/she roots for but gave it’s fans many memorable moments.

  • Zack says:

    I’m amazed at how many people appear to root against knight. It’s almost like they would give their left nut to see him transfer.
    This is why I’m rooting for the kid more

    • KJ1123 says:

      I like Knoght too.

    • Bob Edwards says:

      They remind me of Aggies. They don’t really care if their team wins, they just want to see OU lose. Seems the same way with Knight. They don’t care who wins they just want him to lose.

      • Soonerfandave84 says:

        if they don’t like that Knight threw INTs last year they definitely won’t like seeing Mayfield do it too

        • Bob Edwards says:

          Yeah. Looking at his stats. I don’t see a guy that is clearly better. Lot’s of INTs in B-12 play

          • Zack says:

            The difference IMO between knight and mayfield is the style of offense they were asked to run (also baker played against the easy portion of the schedule that year for tech). 64% in a pass happy system isn’t great. It’s good enough but it’s not different from a 58/59% in a run oriented offense. Ask the military schools or ga tech what the desired % off pass competitions is, I bet 50% or better is their goal.

          • Bob Edwards says:

            Yeah, there is not an eye popping difference for one of them. I think a lot of people are down on TK because they got their expectations way to high after the Sugar Bowl. They were expecting Heisman what they got was run of the mill. They were disappointed and that has turned into anger.

          • D Hunter Sanchez says:

            Agreed. We got used to Bradford and Jones throwing the ball around and scoring at will for the most part. The question is what are the expectations now? A Bomar/Hybl/Knight/Bell of 2013-2014 QB or a White/Bradford/Jones type performance?

          • SoonerOracle737 says:

            I would settle for a serviceable QB who can distribute the ball, make good decisions, manage the game clock, and limit the INT’s. He doesn’t have to be a gun-slinger, but simply make Div 1 type of plays to the open receivers. I just don’t want to see a repeat of last year’s struggles.

          • D Hunter Sanchez says:

            Sound good to me. Petty is good, but his WRSwere wide open…this will be key getting separation by the WRS. This is why Neal shouldn’t start IMHO.

          • Bob Edwards says:

            We want the White/Bradford/Jones type. But you have to have a system that you can win with when you don’t have those guys. Interestingly you didn’t mention Heupel yet we won a championship with him. I think all the guys we have on campus have as much physical ability as Heupel. We don’t have to have a great QB to win with. We need a OC that can use the skills of a decent QB in an effective way.

          • D Hunter Sanchez says:

            Zack, OU was run-oriented by default. Shep got hurt, QB missed throws, got hurt, the back up missed throws…BS wants a multiple offense always…I think we can only go on the Spring and the Fall under Riley..in deciding who wins the job.

    • EasTex says:

      I like Knight, also.
      Still, I will await the Coaches decision and will respect it.

    • Soonerfandave84 says:

      I like Knight as well, just think Cody Thomas has a bigger upside as a passer

      • D Hunter Sanchez says:

        I don’t necessarily disagree, but what is the basis for Thomas having such an upside? Last we saw, he couldn’t move OU through the air. Do you think JH’s offense was the blame? Just curious. I am not sure if it was Thomas, the Play calling, the WR or a combo of all. But Thomas couldn’t hit the side of a barn in 2014.

        • Jonathan Taylor says:

          JH seemed rattled nearly all of last year. Made a lot of questionable calls IMO. Plus let’s remember he was trying to instill an offense that he wasn’t familiar with. The option was never his forte and it showed with how little TK ran in the first half of the season. He seemed almost gun shy which tells me JH was in his ear say give every time. But mostly JH just never seemed comfortable or trusted the offense he was using. Never a good sign for an OC.

  • KJ1123 says:

    If we go by this comparison (which I totally made up) TK gives us the best chance to win:

    BM = Manziel
    TK = T-Bow
    CT = Sean Mannion

  • rphokc says:

    hey, it’s a nice day, take a break and go for a bike ride……….

    ……..http://www.sbnation.com/lookit/2015/8/10/9126855/cyclist-crash-tour-of-utah-support-car-video

  • William Bryan Thompson says:

    I honestly think/hope that the entire program was humbled by last year’s results, and think BS/LR are going to take as much time as they need to figure out our best option. Considering Trevor and Cody’s struggles, the fact that Mayfield is basically an unknown entity, plus the installation of a new offense, it feels pretty wide open. Hopefully scrimmages will begin to provide some clarity…I’d like to see whoever the starter is get a couple of weeks under his belt exclusively with the 1’s before the mighty Zips come to town. BTW, I’ve been obsessing over this site since my father-in-law turned me onto this gold mine a few weeks back. Absolutely fantastic in every way TFB, keep it comin’!

    • EasTex says:

      I keep flashing to the fact that Mayfield hasn’t played a down of football ever for OU and it has been almost two years since he last played. TK and CT have played for OU and last season.
      Mayfield’s best performances were against SMU and Stephen F. Austin. The largest stadium his 2013 Taco Tech team played in was Owen Field.
      To me, it would seem Mayfield might be a hyperventilation risk at a big venue like Tennessee or the Cotton Bowl. I don’t think the big stage will be as detrimental to TK or CT.

      • Walter Sobcek says:

        That’s exactly what I have been saying. Asking a guy who hasn’t played since 2013 (and has had limited playing time to begin with) to lead a team with a new offense in only its seocnd game of the season into Neyland is a tall order. At least TK has played in the RRR and the Sugar Bowl.

        • D Hunter Sanchez says:

          Gotta admit the experience factor comes into play. But Mayfield has exhibited a personality that does not appear to succumb to pressure.

          • soonersd says:

            I was about type the same thing…

            Baker may struggle and make mistakes but I don’t think “pressure” or the “big stage” will be major factor if he does. Big risk takers don’t tend to be bothered by pressure too much. I speak from experience 🙂

  • Walter Sobcek says:

    If he’s throwing more oskies than TK, that’s worrisome. At this point, my biggest concern is which QB can take the field at Neyland in front of 100K riled up Vol fans and not dirty his drawers.

  • Cush Creekmont says:

    I sure hope all three QBs have made “real strides” compared to what I remember. Since I can’t see any current examples of their play, I have no opinion of them now. I trust the coaches to make the best choice for the team and let the QB play with the WHOLE playbook and play calling options. A new OC and the Boykin example provide hope and anticipation for this season. But I still want all the TFB info you can give me about fall-camp performances (just another greedy consumer of TFB products…burp – excuse me).

  • James says:

    Two months ago I would’ve bet the house that Mayfield would’ve been the starter. Not so sure now. There’s a lot of talk about him throwing int’s and that’s something that BS has show he will not tolerate (if there are options) just like RB’s that put the ball on the ground. Correct me if I’m wrong but it seems back when Sammy B won the starting gig the thing BS talked about the most was that he didn’t make many mistakes….anyhow, I’m more than ready for the season to start…. Taking my 7 year old boy to the season opener….. It’ll be his first game! Boomer!

  • EasTex says:

    The third OU game in a row on espn classic, this one is 2012 Bedlam.
    Very interesting that espn would show so much Sooner magic.

  • Ryan says:

    I was at the Sugar Bowl 2 years ago. I saw Trevor Knight absolutely dominate the mighty Alabama defense with my own 2 eyeballs. Maybe I was just drunk but I swear he had like 600 yards and 8 TDs. Lol in all seriousness tho, that game happened and it was special. And it keeps me thinking that maybe he is a special qb, maybe JH was the problem, maybe Lincoln Riley can bring back that guy we all saw dominate the best of the best. There’s so many questions around the QB position and it keeps us from getting our hopes up too high for this season. But just think, if that version of TK9 becomes the norm… we can handle any team in this conference.

    • EasTex says:

      I always think back to what TK said after the game, that it was all about his confidence level and it showed. Something or things happened last year to erode that and he rarely showed any confidence.
      I think LR and his system, along with LR remaining on the sideline, will make a significant difference for TK or any of the other QBs.

      • Ryan says:

        I agree that confidence may have been a big problem for him previously. I think an offense like this where you are quickly getting rid of the ball and getting completions under your belt can really help your confidence. I love what I’ve seen of the system and I really do think it could single handedly turn this offense around.

        • EasTex says:

          Boom and I both have commented on watching the 2014 RRS replay. The offense could do nothing in the first half and they usually snapped the ball just before the play clock ran out. In the second half the offense went up tempo, very few “check with me” downs and TK moved them straight down the field for a TD and the play clock usually 15 to 17 seconds left on it.
          I think that last year they were over-thinking the offense and it stifled the players from just playing ball.

      • Bob Edwards says:

        Having more than one target might help too.

    • MoJoOkie says:

      I agree with most (if not all) of your post. I don’t think Knight was put in an optimal position during last years season.

    • Tucker says:

      I remember watching it with my brother. When the went through the pregame and said his favorite player was Drew Brees and then the game started and I though I was watching Drew Brees.
      By the end of the game my brother and I were jumping up and down calling him the Messiah and that he would lead us to the promise land.
      I’ll stand behind anyone Riley picks. I feel like if anyone knows what they are doing it is that guy and as of right now I have no reason to question him.

      • soonersd says:

        How night and day is it listening to Riley talk versus Heupel? The guy is extremely like-able and sure of himself. I just don’t have any doubt that he’s going to put the talent we have in great position to succeed. I can’t ever remember being this impressed with such a young coach just by hearing them talk a few times.

  • Fear The Magic says:

    For all those that are overly concerned about the number of INTs the QBs are throwing, as someone mentioned earlier this week the defense at this point is very familiar with the offense and are jumping routes. In other words they often know where the ball is going which will result in more ints than usual. Thats not to say that some of it isnt on the QBs as well but I just wouldnt put too much weight on it at this point.

  • KJ1123 says:

    Shurod Thompson (sorry but there’s no OP yet) on OU.

    “I was actually planning to commit there,” Thompson said. “I even had the tweet ready to go but they told me they didn’t have room and were only looking at safeties now. me and Jordan (Parker) were both looking at Oklahoma and doing something together but I understand that’s how it goes, that’s recruiting.

    It was a Scout.com interview.

  • Mr. Jones says:

    Super K – Do you have any specifics on what Cody is doing well or not doing well? Or what areas he’s maybe made significant strides in?

  • DCinAZ says:

    If one of our QBs is throwing 3 INTs in a single practice and it’s still a three man race, that’s not good.

    • D Hunter Sanchez says:

      I guess you’re questioning the comment that Mayfield is really good but threw three Ints yesterday. I see that has a contradiction at this point. But perhaps he is moving the team better than the others? I hope one emerges and is consistent in not turning the ball over.

      • DCinAZ says:

        I’ve never thought Mayfield was good. Reading that he threw 3 INTs only confirms what I’ve always believed about him. I don’t mean that to sound crappy about the kid. I just think he’s been the most over-rated, over-hyped, and over-assumed “absolute starter” in the entire country.

        • John McCroskey says:

          I’ve been one to temper my expectations re: Mayfield, but I would caution that it’s possible a WR contributed to an INT, or maybe a ball was tipped.

          However, his stats when he faced real competition at Texas Tech are not good. Then again, his team at Tech sucked.

  • Brien Brown says:

    I’ve said before that Mayfield is too much of a gambler and Stoops as we know doesn’t deal with turnovers well at all. Think TK is athletic always have if allowed to use his ability instead of being tied down and no free run he would be great. Again IMO.

    • D Hunter Sanchez says:

      BS dealt with Knight’s turnovers in 2013 and 2014.

      • Brien Brown says:

        Only because he was too prideful to switch back to Blake Bell! Lets be honest.

        • D Hunter Sanchez says:

          I find BS very inconsistent on this topic. RBS that fumble go immediately into his dog house. Meanwhile, QBS get more chances. Funny how in 2013 two of our three best wins came with Bell as the QB!

          • Brien Brown says:

            Not saying I don’t disagree with what you are saying Sir at all. But I also think perhaps, BS was trying to stay by his boy JH decision trying to show he supported JH which was a bad deal. I would of totally started Bell, but I am couch coach and that’s just IMO. However TK is fragile and all but I feel his athletic ability is a game changer if in a easier system. I really think who ever wins is only the QB this year TBH, I think that recruit we have coming in will be LR’s boy and will probably start out the gate unless whoever does start has a All-American type season. All persepctive

          • D Hunter Sanchez says:

            Yes sir. We want OU to regain its rightful place atop the Big 12 and get into the playoffs. I can’t wait. Knight/Thomas/Mayfield with Westbrook, Shep, Mixon, Perine, Andrews, Mead deep…

          • Brien Brown says:

            Well whoever wins has the weapons for sure. I think Flowers is a guy that can be an X factor in this O mean we ain’t hearing a whole lot about him but, with Ross, Perine, Mixon, Shep, Westbrook, Andrews, Mead, and Neal and Quick Flowers is a game changer I think he is a Runnels/Smith/Millard guy that brings all kinds of possibilities put him in space.

          • Boom says:

            I guess AD was fragile in college too.

    • D Hunter Sanchez says:

      But he is fragile. Bradford and Jones didn’t run well and we scored at will on people. I want someone like those guys.

  • albsooner says:

    As many have famously stated, “if you have 3 QB’s, you have none.”. It is not good that it is such a tight race and that there isn’t a go to QB as of yet. I am concerned, and will continue to be concerned as many of you most certainly are. I don’t care who wins the job, I just hope that person can manage the game and avoid TO’s and at least complete 60% of passes.

    We are going to need a VERY good running attack and D to keep us in games this year.

    • Brien Brown says:

      Don’t be a glass is half empty type. I think you are saying this without seeing LR and his offense perform. You like a lot of fans are going in acting like JH is calling the plays this year. I expect a much more simpler higher paced O with less checks and a O that stays with the flow of the game. Lets wait and see before we say we need this or that. I agree no TO’s and a high percentage but, lets get a few games under our belt before we become couch coaches.

    • Daddy R says:

      Well considering where Thomas was last year, the fact that he has closed the gap this quickly is very positive. If he continues the same trajectory, he could be the clear cut starter very soon.

      • SCKSChief says:

        Now, is this a “good” thing or a “bad” thing? Seriously. Has he closed the gap because all three have greatly improved and he’s improved much, much more? OR has Knight simply been Knight and Mayfield isn’t all that great and throws too many picks, so, by default, Thomas has “closed the gap”? I’m still QB gun shy with this squad until it is proven otherwise. That image of Thomas from last year (and Knight…shudder) is tough to get out of the old skull.

    • D Hunter Sanchez says:

      Disagree because we have a vastly superior WR core. In addition, this is an offense that can score points. Look EC scored a lot of points with a QB less talented than our QBS.

  • guest says:

    I think the Sooners will have an odd, ambidextrous 1 -1 punch this year with Perine and Mixon – two young men with two different styles. It is #1 and #1, if they can stay healthy.

  • Jonathan Taylor says:

    It seems like the writing maybe on the wall that Thomas gets the nod against the Zips. Mayfield throws too many gambles and TK never sees the invisible LBs. I know no one is really talking about Thomas, but I don’t remember a lot of people talking about Bradford either when he was in a competition with SIX other QBs back in ’07. Everybody expected Halzle or Nichol to win the job, but we all know what happened.

    • Brien Brown says:

      It’s not completely unlikely to happen. I think Thomas is a great QB I liked him from day one but, I disagree in the regards he starts at Akron. Think he will get a chance but, not sure he starts. Just IMO again all perspective right now.

      • Jonathan Taylor says:

        Fair point. It just seems like the fact they continue to say all “three” (five total) are close and that to me says Thomas might be it. If we look back at the spring game Mayfield threw 2 Ints that where lobs and TK threw the usual underthrow right at a LB that we’ve gotten used to. Meanwhile, Thomas only threw 1 Int and it was tipped. Don’t get me started on Hansen I’m still pissed that he left with an open competition still going on.

        • Brien Brown says:

          Well, if you read the report they also said TK has the less TO’s in practice thus far. So I can’t put a whole lot into the past according to the stuff I read above. They seem all pretty tight. Hansen well he didn’t want to fight it out we don’t need him! Again IMO

          • oumike23 says:

            That isn’t fair. If you don’t know him or his coach, then your opinion doesn’t matter on the Hansen topic. Let’s just focus on who is here right now. I agree, it seems like a very tight race.

          • Brien Brown says:

            Ok then none of our opinion’s matter if that’s your point Sir, you don’t know him or his coach I bet and yet you can critique everyone else, I am stating an obvious he left not wanting to try and win the job so clear as day to me he didn’t want to work for it. My two cents is about as good as your good sir, don’t get offended by the fact that I stated an obvious, he knew like the rest of them they would get a chance and he didn’t stay around to work for it. Good luck to him elsewhere.

          • oumike23 says:

            Actually I do…and K can vouch for that. I’m just saying let it go and focus on who is here. I don’t mind opinions on here, we all have them about the team, play, etc…just don’t bash a young man for doing what he feels is best for him, especially when you don’t know the details or reasoning.

  • Jesse says:

    For anyone that cares: these numbers could be made up I don’t know found all stats for the 3 on the yahoo/rivals all sr year in hs
    Cody Thomas completed 63.3% of passes for 4,154 yrds 46 TD’s 6 INT’s
    Baker Mayfield 65.3% for 3,788 yrds 45 TDs 5 INTs (very similar to CT)
    Trevor Knight 54% 2,092 yrds 27 TDs 3 INTs

    Obviously competition levels could of all differed TK9 obviously played a little different style but we saw what he could do in the sugar bowl. All I’m saying is they are all MORE than capable to lead us to where we need to be. Can’t wait to find out who wins and can’t wait for the season.