The Football Brainiacs

A lot of you were probably wondering how the defense could be so salty for the entire game and then give up that quick TD to TCU towards the end of the game. What’s made this defense better isn’t just about scheme (though that helps) it’s also about the fundamentals, tackling, running to the ball, effort, etc. But one of the most important things we’ve done this year is add speed, and a lot of it, on the edge. This allows OU to pressure the QB, keep him contained and, when necessary, chase him down. Coach Mike made the right calls but we didn’t execute on two big plays and it costs us points.

1^st down 10; 4:37 in the 4^th quarter

TCU is empty gun. OU blitzes Frank Shannon off the edge where he is in perfect position to get a sack, but Boykin evades the rush beautifully. Shannon is the “cage” (player who is sent to keep contain on the quarterback inside the pocket) to the strong side and the d-line is all slanting weak so once Boykin shakes free of Shannon he has time to look downfield. Shannon doesn’t take a bad angle and it’s a great play by Boykin but once Shannon gets his hands on Boykin he’s got to bring him down.

OU is running a cover 4 with Q Hayes taking any route that comes inside. #3 runs a wheel a route between Colvin and Lynn. Lynn has got to be playing over the top of that guy. Shannon missing the tackle allows Boykin to slip down the line on the strong side and thread the ball to the #3 receiver between both OU players.