An OU Football Rarity: A Freshman Starter on the Defensive Line Plus a Backup Quarterback is Named

Background

The Oklahoma Sooners football team is known for its storied history and tradition. However, this season, the Sooners are fielding a rather unique lineup. For the first time in recent memory, the team has a true freshman starting on the defensive line and a backup quarterback who is also a freshman.

Who Are These Players?

Freshman Defensive Lineman: Jalen Redmond

Jalen Redmond is a 6'3", 280-pound defensive tackle from Midwest City, Oklahoma. He was a highly-touted recruit coming out of high school, and he has lived up to the hype so far in his collegiate career. Redmond has started all three games for the Sooners this season, and he has recorded 6 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and 1 sack.

Freshman Backup Quarterback: Caleb Williams

Caleb Williams is a 6'1", 185-pound quarterback from Washington, D.C. He was also a highly-touted recruit, and he is considered to be one of the best young quarterbacks in the country. Williams has played in two games this season, and he has completed 10 of 15 passes for 133 yards and 1 touchdown.

Why Is This So Rare?

It is very rare for a true freshman to start on the defensive line for a major college football program. Defensive line is a physically demanding position, and it typically takes players several years to develop the strength and size necessary to play at a high level. Redmond is a rare exception to this rule, and he has already shown that he is capable of playing at a high level.

It is also rare for a true freshman to be the backup quarterback for a major college football program. Quarterback is the most important position on the field, and it typically takes players several years to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to play at a high level. Williams is a rare exception to this rule, and he has already shown that he has the potential to be a great quarterback.

What Does This Mean for the Sooners?

The fact that the Sooners have a true freshman starting on the defensive line and a backup quarterback who is also a freshman is a sign that the program is in good hands. These two players are both talented and have the potential to be stars. If they continue to develop, they could help the Sooners win a lot of games in the years to come.