Crimson Countdown: No.35 Jakeb Snyder
The Crimson Countdown is officially on for the 2023 Oklahoma football season. It’s the second season under head coach Brent Venables and expectations are high once again. The Sooners are looking to rebound from the uncharacteristic 6-7 season in 2022.
Every day as we get closer to kickoff, SoonerScoop.com will count down the days with you. Starting with No. 99 and working our way to No. 0, we’ll be there every step of the way.
Crimson Countdown: No.35 Jakeb Snyder
2022 stats: N/A
2023 outlook:
Upon his arrival Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables spoke on the importance of keeping the state of Oklahoma’s best high school football players in-state. Sure, he was speaking mostly on the highly ranked players that are littered throughout the Sooner State. But every once in awhile you find a player that might’ve slipped through the recruiting cracks. See Jakeb Snyder.
Arriving to Norman via state powerhouse Bixby, Snyder was two-way standout helping the Spartans win its fifth consecutive state title. In a sense it’s almost as if he never left the field as a senior. Leading the high-powered Spartan offense with 53 receptions for 459 yards and six touchdowns while also making 55 tackles, three tackles for loss and four interceptions. Simply put: Oklahoma got a ballplayer that has a knack for showing up and making plays in the biggest moments. Precisely what Venables is looking for in a walk-on. The kind of player that will add competitive depth in the defensive secondary and a contributor on special teams.
He joins Bixby teammate Cale Fugate in the Sooners incoming freshman class.
2023 defensive back outlook:
Oklahoma’s secondary will continue to be an important focus as the Sooners begin preseason camp. Woodi Washington and Gentry Williams lead the way on the corners while Mackari Vickers, Jasiah Wagoner head into their freshmen seasons following successful campaigns this spring as early enrollees. Kani Walker is an intriguing name to remember after battling injuries throughout last season. JUCO transfer Kendel Dolby is also expected to compete for playing time. While redshirt freshman Jayden Rowe heads into ‘on the verge’ territory of becoming a player that should get into the mix.
Brandon Hall’s safety position group seems to be heading in the right direction with the return of Billy Bowman and Key Lawrence to go along with prized former five-star Peyton Bowen. Reggie Pearson brings with him a wealth of experience from the transfer portal.
