Oklahoma Football: 5 reasons why Sooners will repeat as Big 12 champs

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Nov 21, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) celebrates with offensive tackle Orlando Brown (78) and center Ty Darlington (56) after catching a touchdown pass during the first half against the TCU Horned Frogs at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Offensive Line

The Oklahoma Sooners could make a push for one of the best offensive lines in the country. All five starters return for an o-line that didn’t make many mistakes in 2016.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield shouldn’t have to worry too much about protection in the pocket next season. The offensive line features the Big 12 offensive lineman of the year in left tackle Orlando Brown.

Brown is a 6-foot-7, 340-pound prospect who has protected Mayfield’s blindside for the past two seasons. He’s made 26 starts since earning the starting job.

Next to Brown, the Sooners return a lot of depth at the position with Ben Powers, Erick Wren, Dru Samia, Cody Ford, Bobby Evans and Jonathan Alvarez all capable of earning playing time.

Needless to say, if anybody goes down with injury, the Oklahoma Sooners shouldn’t have a hard time finding a replacement on the depth chart. While it’s hard to name starters right away, protecting Mayfield will be key in winning the Big 12 crown.

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