Oklahoma Sooners Football: Who To Watch For in 2008

With National Signing day rapidly approaching (Feb.6)— and early defections and senior graduates already gone— there are plenty of spots that need to be filled on every team's roster.  The same is true for the Oklahoma Sooners, who look to replace key losses at wide receiver, running back, defensive end, linebacker, and safety. 

On the offensive side of the ball, OU has the potential to be even more potent than last season's explosive offense.  Senior running back Allen Patrick has moved on, but leaves a stable of highly-capable running backs to take his spot. 

DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown are at the top of the list to replace Patrick, but don't sleep on Mossis Madu and recruit Jermie Calhoun (who has verbally committed to Oklahoma). 

Juaquin Iglesias returns at wide receiver, as does Quentin Chaney and Manuel Johnson.  Malcom Kelly has left early for the NFL Draft, but incoming freshmen Josh Jarboe and Jameel Owens look to fill in the gap.

On defense, the secondary was hit the hardest, losing Reggie Smith, Marcus Walker, and D.J. Wolfe.  Plenty of young talent is ready to emerge, such as Brett Bowers and Lendy Holmes.  Holmes received plenty of playing time the past few seasons, and the same goes for Nic Harris. 

The defensive line loses senior defense end Alonzo Dotson, along with defensive tackle Steven Coleman. Recruit R.J. Washington will come to Norman ready to contribute alongside Auston English, Gerald McCoy, and DeMarcus Granger (assuming Granger gets his personal life in order).

Inside linebacker recruit Daniel Franklin looks to play a key role for years to come, but has a tough immediate task in replacing departed star Curtis Lofton, who led the Big 12 in tackles last year.  Lamont Robinson and Ryan Reynolds will anchor a linebacking core that will be shallow, but talented.

Throw in some depth at quarterback and offensive line, and Bob Stoops has positioned his Oklahoma Sooners to be National Championship contenders for the foreseeable future.