Spring football could be a critical time for several Oklahoma football players.
Some Sooners will prove they are ready to make a major impact in 2014, while others could show they might need more seasoning before they earn a permanent place in OU’s plans for the future. This week we will look at five players to keep an eye on during spring football, continuing with No. 4.
No. 4: Center Ty Darlington
Why: For the past two seasons, OU has enjoyed the security of having All-Big 12 center Gabe Ikard in the middle of its offensive line. The Sooners need someone to step up to fill that void, and Darlington could be the guy. He did it as a freshman against Baylor, so there’s no reason to think it won’t be a seamless transition.
Yet if Darlington falters, the future at the position becomes less secure. With strong line play set to be the foundation of OU’s offensive success, Darlington’s spring is worth keeping tabs on.
Best-case scenario: Darlington takes control of the position while proving he is ready to handle and command the offensive line the way Ikard did. He brings similar traits with his intelligence, mental focus and maturity. The Florida native played in spot duty as a freshman and sophomore and appears ready for a bigger role in the offense. This spring is his chance to show he has the potential to give OU an All-Big 12 center for the third consecutive season.
Worst-case scenario: Darlington looks like he was regressed since his freshman season. Recent signee Alex Dalton provides depth. and junior Nila Kasitati has the versatility to play the center spot. But Darlington is the ideal candidate to step right in for Ikard with minimal drop-off. Thus, if he doesn’t take command of the position in the spring, seeds of doubt could be planted, adding one more concern for the coaching staff heading into the summer months.
No. 5: Tight end Blake Bell
