Samaje Perine’s keys to avoiding sophomore slump with Oklahoma Sooners

Dec 6, 2014; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Samaje Perine (32) runs for a touchdown against the Oklahoma State Cowboys during the first quarter at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

New Offensive System

OU’s 2014 offensive woes ultimately led to Bob Stoops’ off-season decision to fire former OC Josh Heupel and hire East Carolina OC Lincoln Riley. Trevor Knight’s inconsistent play and failure to further develop as a quarterback was the offense’s most glaring issue.

But, in spite of Knight’s struggles and defenses focused on stopping OU’s rushing attack, Samaje Perine still had a season for the ages. If OU’s 2015 starter at quarterback can competently run Riley’s offense and improve upon OU’s pedestrian 2014 passing numbers, that will open up opportunities for the running game. And don’t think for one second that Lincoln Riley isn’t licking his chops scheming how to get Perine running downhill and over defenders.

Next: More carries