Unsung Heroes of the 2016 OU Football Roster: The Story Behind the Numbers
The 2016 University of Oklahoma Sooners football team ended the season with a record of 10-3, marking a respectable year in a highly competitive Big 12 South Conference. However, despite the impressive numbers, few fans remember the contributions of the team's unsung heroes – the players who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the OU football program succeed. In this article, we will delve into the story of the 2016 OU football roster, focusing on the players who played a crucial role in the team's success, despite not being household names.
The Quarterbacks: Baker Mayfield and Mick Ennahar
The OU quarterback position is one of the most scrutinized roles in college football. In 2016, Oklahoma had two quarterbacks vying for the top spot: Baker Mayfield and Mick Ennahar. Mayfield, a sophomore at the time, took the reins early in the season and went on to lead the Sooners to a 9-2 record, earning him a spot in the Heisman Trophy discussion. Ennahar, a true freshman, showed promising signs, throwing for over 600 yards and 4 touchdowns in limited playing time.
"Baker was a true leader on the field," said running back Samaje Perine. "He had a way of making everyone around him better, and his confidence was contagious." Mayfield's ability to read defenses and make split-second decisions earned him the nod as the starting quarterback for most of the season.
Mayfield's Comeback
Mayfield played a crucial role in the OU football program's resiliency in 2016. Despite serving a one-game suspension for violating a university rule, Mayfield bounced back with a strong performance against the TCU Horned Frogs, leading the team to a 52-46 win.
The Running Backs: Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon
Oklahoma's running back duo of Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon formed one of the most dominant backfields in the country. Perine, a junior, led the team with over 1,300 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns, earning him All-Big 12 honors. Mixon, a freshman, was a breakout star, rushing for over 1,000 yards and scoring 8 touchdowns in his first season.
"Samaje was a workhorse for us," said Mayfield. "He was always the guy we could count on to get the tough yards and keep drives alive." Mixon's explosive plays were a key component of the OU offense, often breaking into the open field for big gains.
Mixon's Impact
Mixon's impact on the team extended beyond his playing time. His electric personality in the locker room and on the field rubbed off on his teammates, inspiring them to play with more energy and enthusiasm.
The Wide Receivers: Sterling Shepard and Dede Westbrook
The OU wide receiver corps was stacked with talent in 2016, featuring Sterling Shepard and the emerging star Dede Westbrook. Shepard, a senior, led the team with over 1,400 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns, earning him All-American honors. Westbrook, a junior, became a breakout star, hauling in 53 receptions for over 1,200 yards and 7 touchdowns.
"Sterling was a true leader on the field," said Westbrook. "He was always making plays and creating opportunities for himself and others." Westbrook's explosive plays and route running skills made him a favorite target for Mayfield.
Shepard's Legacy
Shepard's legacy at OU is still remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike. His work ethic, determination, and clutch performances on the field made him a beloved figure in the Oklahoma football community.
The Linemen: Ty Darlington and Ben Hayes
The OU linemen were a dominant force in the 2016 season, paving the way for the team's high-powered offense. Ty Darlington, a senior, was a key leader on the line, anchoring the center position and helping to protect Mayfield's blind side. Ben Hayes, a junior, was a breakout star, starting at left tackle and earning All-Big 12 honors.
"Ty was a true leader on the line," said Mayfield. "He had a way of calming everyone down and making sure the line was on the same page." Hayes' athleticism and strength allowed him to dominate opposing defensive ends, opening up holes for Perine and Mixon.
The Safeties: Ahmad Thomas and Steven Parker
The OU safety duo of Ahmad Thomas and Steven Parker was a key component of the team's defensive secondary. Thomas, a senior, was a leader in the secondary, intercepting 2 passes and making 60 tackles in 2016. Parker, a junior, emerged as a breakout star, intercepting 4 passes and making 45 tackles in limited playing time.
"Ahmad was a true leader in the secondary," said defensive coordinator Alex Grinch. "He had a way of making everyone around him better, and his instincts were top-notch." Parker's ball-hawking skills made him a favorite target for opposing quarterbacks, but his speed and agility allowed him to stay one step ahead.
The Kicker: Austin Seferian-Jenkins
The OU kicker position was a bright spot for the team in 2016, thanks to the emergence of Austin Seferian-Jenkins. Seferian-Jenkins, a senior, was a reliable boot, making 15 of 18 field goal attempts and 43 of 45 extra point attempts. His accuracy and leg strength were key components of the OU offense, allowing the team to maintain possession and extend drives.
"Austin was a game-changer for us," said Mayfield. "He had a way of making the big kicks when it mattered most." Seferian-Jenkins' impact on the team extended beyond his playing time, providing a sense of comfort and security for the Sooners.
The Special Teams: James Washington and Joe Mixon
The OU special teams unit was a bright spot for the team in 2016, featuring the dynamic duo of James Washington and Joe Mixon. Washington, a redshirt freshman, returned 2 kicks for touchdowns and set a school record with 3 punt returns for touchdowns in a single season. Mixon, a freshman, emerged as a breakout star, returning a kick for 80 yards and a touchdown.
"James was a true game-changer for us," said Mayfield. "He had a way of making the big returns and turning the tide of the game." Mixon's explosiveness and ball-hawking skills made him a favorite target for opposing kickers, but his size and strength allowed him to dominate in the open field.
The 2016 OU Football Roster: A Legacy of Excellence
The 2016 OU football roster was a talented and resilient group of players who came together to form a dominant force in the Big 12 South Conference. Despite the team's 10-3 record, few fans remember the contributions of the team's unsung heroes – the players who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the OU football program succeed. In this article, we've highlighted some of the key players who made significant contributions to the team's success, from Baker Mayfield to Steven Parker.
As the 2016 OU football season comes to a close, it's clear that this team has left a lasting legacy on the program. The players, coaches, and staff worked together to create a season that will be remembered for years to come. The Sooners' tradition of excellence continues to grow, and it's up to the next generation of players to carry on the torch.
Epilogue
The 2016 OU football roster was a special group of players who came together to form a dominant force in the Big 12 South Conference. As we look back on the season, it's clear that this team was more than just a group of talented individuals – they were a family, bonded together by a shared vision and determination to succeed.
