Demarco Murray on Oklahoma returning RBs, Kennedy Brooks and Marcus Major

Demarco Murray is one of the most productive running backs to ever wear the Oklahoma Sooners uniform. To illustrate, Murray ranks seventh all-time in rushing yards (3,685 yards) and third all-time in touchdowns (50) in the Oklahoma record books.

In 2020, Murray returned to his alma mater as the Sooners’ running back coach. Now, in his new venture, he’s trying to help players like Kennedy Brooks and Marcus Major  make their own dent in Sooners history.

Prior to the start of the 2021 season, Murray spoke on both running backs.

“KB [Kennedy Brooks] is a guy who knows the system. Extremely smart, extremely sharp. We’re happy and fortunate to have him back,” said Murray, via the team’s website. “He’s getting better every single day, and trying to perfect his craft as well.

“He knows this system better than I do. He’s been a part of it for a while. We’re lucky to have him back, and we’re happy he’s back.”

Last season, Brooks decided to opt-out. However, he was a star in 2018 and 2019. He rushed for at least 1,000 yards each season, totaling 2,067 yards and 18 touchdowns combined. This season, he projects to be a huge piece of the Sooners offense.

Demarco Murray on Marcus Major

On the other hand, Marcus Major enters his third season with Oklahoma. While he doesn’t possess the gaudy statistics that Brooks does, the running back is looking to build upon a three touchdown campaign in 2020.

“Marcus, towards the end of the year, he’s one of those guys that made tremendous jumps,” stated Murray. “He just has to continue to stay in the playbook, continue to make those strides, but he’s looking good.”

This season, Major could see more opportunities arise if he continues to make strides. On just 35 attempts in 2020, the running back averaged over five yards-per-carry. 

Oklahoma Sooners: #2 in Preseason AP Top 25

While Murray raves about the potential of his running backs, the nation is showing their belief in the Oklahoma Sooners as a whole. Earlier this week, it was revealed that the Sooners were the second ranked team in the Preseason AP Top 25, right behind the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Many believe that this could be the best team of Lincoln Riley’s tenure. With Spencer Rattler at the helm playing quarterback and a defense that looks much improved, the Sooners could run away with the Big 12. 

While the Sooners are winless in four chances in the College Football Playoff, this could be the year they buck the trend. If Demarco Murray is right about his running backs, Kennedy Brooks and Marcus Major could play a huge role in a historic season for the Oklahoma Sooners.