Several of OU’s top players were left on the sidelines; most of them from the defensive side of the ball. Tackle Dusty Dvoracek, end Larry Birdine, linebacker Demarrio Pleasant and cornerback Marcus Walker did not see action.

Dvoracek is recuperating from surgery on his left biceps. Birdine has missed the last three days of practice with an injury to his left arm. Pleasant broke a finger Thursday. Walker suffered a dislocated shoulder last Sunday, but has been practicing the last three days.

Kejuan Jones, Peterson’s backup at tailback, also had the day off due to a foot injury.

Smith moves to safety

Reggie Smith is one of several freshmen the Sooners expect to play this season. The question has been where. The heralded recruit from Edmond Santa Fe worked at cornerback and safety during the first week of practice.

Stoops said Smith’s future appears to be at the latter position.

“He gives you a lot of options at safety — his ability to play man and other things,” Stoops said. “It gives you a lot of options. It’s more because of the diversity he gives you in there.”