OU Defense Breakdown: Sooner Ethan Downs Dominates

One of the main focuses for the OU defense this off-season was getting better in the trenches, and it’s paying off.

The Sooners lead the nation in tackles for loss, averaging over nine per game.

OU head coach, Brent Venables says that once the new freshmen learn the defensive system, the more they shine, “Confidence, comfort level, it allows you to play a little more consistent, aggressive [and] physical. I think it’s the simple little things.”

Defensive end, Ethan Downs has been especially impressive, with three sacks over the last two games, and 4.5 already this season, matching his career high for an entire season.

Venables says Downs is just getting started, “The closer your hand is to the ball, the harder it is. There’s less margin for error. And so, all of the habits that he’s had, fundamentally, his technique, effort, and physicality are all catching up with him. Things are slowing down for him, so you see him actually playing fast.”