Three takeaways from the Orange-White game

Big Plays

It didn’t take long for one of the newcomers to make an impression. Auburn transfer Sam Jackson returned a punt 81 yards for a score the first time he touched the ball. The former TCU quarterback turned receiver says he’s excited about the position groups’ depth.  And Running Back Rodney Fields broke free for a 74-yards touchdown.

No Quarterback Separation Yet

All four quarterbacks saw action. Garret Rangel and Hauss Hejny for the Orange, Zane Flores and Maealiuaki Smith for the White.  Flores had the most opportunities, completing 8 of 15 passes for 72 yards and an interception in the end zone on a Hail Mary at the end.  Smith scored on a one-year run, and Rangel and Hejny were efficient.  Rangel finished 5 of 6 for 52 yards, Hejny 5 for 5 for 32.  Mike Gundy said afterward that splitting the offensive line into two teams always makes it difficult.

Improved Overall Athleticism

Jackson, Charles and Fields definitely impressed, and it appears there is more overall speed on this Cowboy team.  OU transfer running back Kalib Hicks also showed his ability on a handful of runs.  There was also some unmistakable positive energy on both sidelines, something the head coach says has been prevalent all spring.