Oklahoma Football: Five reasons why Sooners win Big 12 in 2015

Dec 6, 2014; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Samaje Perine (32) runs the ball 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

3. Samaje May Be Even Better

Oklahoma sophomore running back Samaje Perine had a breakout freshman campaign in 2014. He rushed for 1,713 yards and 21 touchdowns while averaging 6.5 yards per attempt.

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Perine set the single-game NCAA rushing record with 427 yards against Kansas. He may be even faster and stronger after a year spent in the Sooners’ weight training program.

The spread offense that the Sooners will be running should spread defenses across the field and open up running lanes for Perine. There are not many defenders who are going to want to try to tackle the 5’11”, 230-pound running back one-on-one.

Perine had 15 receptions for 108 yards during his freshman campaign. He should see a lot more passes out of the backfield with Baker Mayfield at quarterback in the spread offense. The increased touches against defenses that are spread out could mean a Heisman-like campaign for Perine as a sophomore.

Next: Return of Suspended Players