Dillon Gabriel reveals where Oklahoma offense has grown

Quarterback Dillon Gabriel and the new-look Oklahoma Sooners have big shoes to fill in the post-Lincoln Riley era. With Brent Venables’ expertise coming on the defensive end, he’ll need Gabriel and offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby to keep pace with Oklahoma offenses that have led the conference in scoring the last four seasons.

After the Sooners’ massive changes this offseason, they’re focused on rebuilding one step at a time. Gabriel says it’s actually impressed him how fast they’ve been able to lay the new foundation.

“I think (just) growth over time,” said Gabriel. “I think whenever you get a bunch of reps of it both mental and on the field, there’s going to be growth. I’m just super impressed with how fast we’ve continued to grow from day to day.”

Gabriel played three seasons for the UCF Golden Knights. He threw for over 8,000 yards with 70 touchdowns during his time in the American. The expectations for him now skyrocket as the next man under center in Norman. With an all new cast of teammates, he says the repetitions and film study has already helped improve their connections.

“In those days in between, (we’re) watching film and just growing. From there, each day has gotten better,” he said.

Venables’ inaugural season won’t come without struggles, though. They’ve started strong, but this offense has a ways to go to meet the standard Riley’s offenses set. Once they make it to the other side, Gabriel says he and his teammates will be better off for it.

“Through adversity, we’ve learned too,” he said. “Being able to grow and make strides every day just shows the continuity we have together and what we’ll be able to do.”

Gabriel and the new offense will get their first shot to prove themselves on September 3rd in the opener against UTEP.