Oklahoma Report Card Against Iowa State

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Sooners struggled at times against Iowa State, but Dean Blevins gave them high grades in this week's report card thanks to dominant defense and difficult weather conditions.

OU's main problems came on offense, where its problems in the red zone reared their ugly head. The Sooners threw an interception in the end zone, and Iowa State became the first team to stop the Blake Bell formation.

But strong and gusting winds prevented the Sooners from developing a consistent passing attack. OU only scored three points after halftime, but didn't need any more than that thanks to the defense.

One week after allowing a school record yardage total against Baylor, the defense recovered and held Iowa State in check most of the day.

The Sooners only allowed a total of 245 yards, including just 125 yards through the air. Frank Alexander provided consistent pressure off the edge before sustaining a shoulder injury, and the defense forced a total of four turnovers.

It was one the defense's most complete performances of the season, and could have resulted in a shutout if not for one mistake on special teams.

In the first quarter, a snap went over punter Tress Way's head and gave Iowa State the ball at OU's 10-yard line. The Cyclones took advantage with a touchdown on the next play and took an early lead, but never got back on the board.

That one slip-up could be blamed on the swirling winds, but for the rest of the game the special teams units dealt with the conditions well. Michael Hunnicutt hit all four of his field goal attempts, and the three punts Way successful kicked averaged 48 yards and he pinned two inside the 20-yard line.