Jeff Lebby explains how Dillon Gabriel has become a vital leader at Oklahoma

The Oklahoma Sooners are going through a massive transition during the 2021 season. It’s going to be important for them to have leaders step up on their roster as Oklahoma looks to the future. New offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby expects transfer quarterback Dillon Gabriel to step up into that new role.

“I think the thing that he’s done is exactly who he is,” Jeff Lebby said. “He’s been very intentional on creating relationships and making sure that everybody in the locker room knows who he is as a person. So, he’s done a great job of that.”

“The thing that we’re looking for, coming into Fall camp is taking care of the football. You know, operating at a really high level. Those are the two things to me that are most important. The ball is the only thing that matters. So, take care of the rock and we’re gonna be in good shape.”

Dillon Gabriel, a former three-star quarterback, was a star at UCF before suffering a shoulder injury in his junior season. He chose, with the change of staff at UCF, to enter the transfer portal, eventually ending up at Oklahoma with Jeff Lebby. During Gabriel’s freshman season, Lebby was his offensive coordinator.

Jeff Lebby knows that Dillon Gabriel has the talent to thrive

Dillon Gabriel is an undersized, left-handed quarterback. Jeff Lebby has explained that this won’t be a problem, though. Gabriel has great arm strength and throws a beautiful deep ball. This will help him mesh with Lebby’s explosive offense.

“I think one of the greatest things that Dillon does is throw the deep ball,” Jeff Lebby said. “I think if you look at all of his throws on tape, and you go back to his freshman year, his sophomore year, and then before he got hurt last year–he can push the ball down the field.”

“So, he’s got great touch on it. Understands how to get the ball out of his hand a little earlier, if he needs to, but that’s a strength of his for sure.”