This could be an audition to see if either is ready to claim a starting spot next season.

But as far as the present goes, the two have combined for 16 tackles and no pass breakups this season. Smith and Holmes combined for 151 stops, 14 pass breakups and three interceptions apiece.

OU would love to have that experience on the field when going against a West Virginia offense that is both complicated (multiple sets with lots of option) and explosive (averaging 38.9 points a game). Quarterback Pat White is the best run-pass signal caller in the college game. And the Mountaineers feast on making defenders make split second decisions, particularly in the secondary.

“Recognition is everything,” Wolfe said. “You have to be able recognize what is coming by the formations and tendencies. You have to be able to get in that run fit. Pat White is a tremendous athlete and you have to be aware.”

The stress could cause some secondary coaches to go crazy. But Wright’s hair had turned gray long before this situation came up and he’s not hitting the panic button.

Every time a player, or in this case two, go down someone gets the chance to show what he can do.

“This is their opportunity,” Wright said. “You hate it for Lendy, but even though it’s adversity from one standpoint, it’s a great opportunity to show what they’re capable of doing. They’ve been working a long time for this opportunity to come along and they’re going to get their chance to show what they can do.”

John Shinn

366-3536

jshinn@normantranscript.com