NBC Sports’ CollegeFootballTalk preseason top 25 rankings put the Sooners at #4 heading into the 2011 season. Here’s their explanation:
“Surprised that the team that will likely be the No. 1 team in the country in both the Associated Press and USA Today coaches’ preseason poll sits back in fourth in our little endeavor? Yeah, so am I somewhat.
“There’s little doubt that on paper the Sooners are one of the most talent-laden teams in the country. Their 14 returning starters from their Big 12-winning team of a year ago is one of the top totals in Division 1-A (FCS), and included in that total are a Heisman and All-American candidate at quarterback — Landry Jones — and one of the most prolific receivers in the game — Ryan Broyles. Seven starters from a top-35 defense returns, although three-quarters of the secondary will need to be replaced and the interior of the defensive line is somewhat sketchy. Additionally, there’s a huge hole at the linebacker position — and in the hearts of Sooner Nation — following the tragic death of starter Austin Box this offseason. On the offensive side of the ball, the production of three-year starter DeMarco Murray will be tough to replace, although the running back-by-committee approach, relying heavily on Roy Finch and true freshman Brandon Williams, should be better than average.
“That season-ending trip to Stillwater against Oklahoma State notwithstanding, the Sooners are clearly — again, on paper and in all facets of the game — the class of the Big 12. So, why the ‘low’ initial ranking? I get the feeling that the trip to Tallahassee to face Florida State the second week of the season will be the lone blemish of an otherwise perfect season. If it doesn’t turn out the way I see it, though, the Sooners could be in line for a clear path to New Orleans and the BCS title game — provided that little Bedlam thing at the end of the year doesn’t trip them up, of course.”
The site predicts that OU will play in the Fiesta Bowl. You can view the full rankings here.
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