• With Ingram and Alexander back, Oklahoma’s linebacking corps has experience

By John Shinn

Transcript Sports Writer

In most sports, two out of three isn’t bad. It’s better than average and, in most cases, it’s enough to get the job done.

In Oklahoma’s case, two out of three is the number of starting linebackers returning this season. The Sooners feel that will equal to far better than average.

Weakside linebacker Rufus Alexander, a junior, and strongside linebacker Clint Ingram, a senior, highlight a group that has been one of OU’s best positions during the Bob Stoops’ era.

From 2000-2003, OU has had a consensus All-American linebacker every season. The string ended last year, but a new one could be on the horizon.

It starts with Alexander and Ingram.

“I feel like they’re as athletic, explosive and have the play-making ability as good as anybody in the conference,” OU defensive co-coordinator Venables said.

Alexander and Ingram saw their first extensive action last year. Alexander responded with 74 tackles, seven for losses, including two sacks. His play-making abilities turned him into a second-team selection on last season’s All-Big 12 team. He is a first-team selection to this year’s pre-season squad. Ingram registered 50 tackles and two sacks. He also gained a reputation for his ability to cover the pass and a run-stopper.

They are the known commodities in the linebacker corps. The unknown is in the middle where junior Zach Latimer has to fill the large shoes of Lance Mitchell.

Latimer spent last season as Mitchell’s understudy, soaking in the defense. The time has arrived to show his knowledge on the field.

Venables believes he’s up to the task.

“A guy like Zach Latimer hasn’t played, but has been in our program now three years,” Venables said. “We feel like he’s got the range and mindset for it. He just needs to have an opportunity to play and gain experience.”

Of course, neither Alexander or Ingram had experience before their 2004 last seasons. But, last year, they both made the most of their opportunities.