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

Jan 2, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Frank Shannon (20) celebrates a sack against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the second half at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Oklahoma defeated Alabama 45-31. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports

2. Suspended Players Return

The Sooners will get a boost on both sides of the ball as Joe Mixon and Frank Shannon return to the field after sitting out the 2014 season due to suspensions. They are two players who have the potential to change the complexion of the Sooners’ team on offense and defense.

Mixon was a five-star running back recruit ranked by 247Sports as the No. 1 all-purpose back in the nation when he was coming out of high school. He sat out the 2014 season as punishment for assaulting a female student at a bar in Norman.

Mixon’s slashing running style should give a nice contrast to the power running of Samaje Perine. Mixon caught 18 passes for 383 yards and six touchdowns as a junior in high school. His ability to catch the ball should help the Sooners in 2015.

Shannon was suspended for the 2014 season for sexual misconduct. The senior linebacker led the Sooners during his sophomore season with 92 tackles and added two sacks and an interception. He is listed as a backup on the Oklahoma depth chart but is potentially an all-conference player.

Next: Eric Striker's Run for Big 12 DPOY