As we progress through fall camp, there has been more and more buzz going around about the offensive line. For the first time in what feels like an eternity, the Sooners have an overwhelming amount of depth, especially at the Tackle position. Multiple players such as Tyler Guyton and Savion Byrd are making pushes to earn a starting role. Brent Venables has said that there are ‘nine guys’ who can contribute on the Offensive Line. Venables stated that he wants to find a way to get them onto the field in any way possible. However, there are only five starting spots available. How will they see the field amidst a talented offensive line room? There are a couple of different options that are being discussed.
Taking the Right Tackle Spot Outright
The Left Tackle position is all but locked down by Junior Anton Harrison, but the right tackle spot is an entirely different story. A position battle between Wanya Morris, Savion Byrd, and Tyler Guyton is taking place currently, and it’s tighter than many people think. Although Morris leads currently, don’t be shocked if one of the other guys wins out there.
Sliding Inside to Guard
This is an option which could very well take place, and it’s one that I predict happening in my 2022 OU Depth Chart Projections. Although McKade Mettauer has a firm grasp on the Left Guard position, the Right Guard position could see some change this year. Chris Murray drew a ton of penalties last season, and was pretty inconsistent at times. On top of that, he’s been a bit banged up through camp so far, although nothing serious. It is very possible that we see Savion Byrd slide inside and take over the starting role with his athleticism and versatility.
Lots of Rotation
This is something that we will see, at least to a certain extent. I don’t believe it will be on the same level as it was last year, and it shouldn’t be. However, I think that we’ll see a healthy dose of both Guyton and Byrd in the rotation, even if they aren’t at the top. Although Jake Taylor and Jacob Sexton have been impressive in camp so far, I don’t believe the two freshmen will get much meaningful playtime this season.
Regardless of how they get onto the field, expect the players listed above to see a healthy amount of meaningful snaps. The depth at the Offensive Line position is outstanding this year, and it could give the Sooners the edge in some of the gritter games.