Oklahoma has always counted on its linebackers.

Taking on offensive linemen and running stride for stride with running backs are both part of the job. The ability to accomplish both tasks are difficult to find in any one player, but the Sooners always seem to find at least three who are up to the job.

This season is no different.

OU brings back two starters in weakside linebacker Rufus Alexander and Zach Latimer in the middle. Both are coming off solid seasons and were the Sooners’ top tacklers a year ago.

Latimer had 84 stops, including six behind the line of scrimmage. He proved he could handle the rigors of OU’s defense.

But Alexander is the star of the group.

Since 2001, OU has claimed two Butkus Award winners in Rocky Calmus (2001) and Teddy Lehman (2003). Defensive coordinator Brent Venables believes Alexander is on their level.

“Rufus has a chance to be in the company of the awfully good linebackers that we’ve had since we’ve been here,” he said.

The senior from Baton Rouge, La., made himself a fan favorite with his knack for making plays at critical times. Chants of “Ruuuufus” have become as commonplace as “Boomer Sooner” over the last three seasons.

Last year Alexander paced OU with 102 tackles, including 17 for losses. He also amassed five sacks, an interception and broke up nine passes. The effort made him an All-Big 12 selection.

But more is expected in his final season. Alexander was named the Big 12’s preseason defensive player of the year and will compete for the Butkus Award.

He’s appreciative of the accolades, but he knows he has to earn everything on the field.

“It feels good that people think of you that highly, but it’s all predictions,” Alexander said. “You can’t go off that. You have to produce, play and execute.”

It’s a pretty sure bet he will, and Latimer is sure to be better after a season of experience. He was the new guy last season.

“Everyone has to do it,” Latimer said. “The guys that step right in and play are few and far between. It’s good to wait and learn and finally step in when it’s your turn.”