JD PicKell: Oklahoma feels great about its running back room

If there’s one thing Lincoln Riley built up at Oklahoma, it’s offensive talent. Even with his departure, there is still plenty for head coach Brent Venables to work with in Norman. Especially in the running back room, where the group is expected to be one of the deepest in the country.

On3’s J.D. PicKell recently had high praise for the Oklahoma running back rooms, shouting out Eric Gray in particular. He is expected to be the starter this season, while there might be a committee behind him. The success can mostly be credited to position coach DeMarco Murray, who has done an excellent job recruiting and developing the backs for the Sooners.

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“They feel real good about this running back room,” PicKell said. “Eric Gray I would expect to be RB1. I think they will have some guys they mix in as well. Think it will be a little bit by committee. They are raving about DeMarco Murray down there. They love what he’s done about his running back room. They love how he’s coached them up. They feel good about what they have there depth-wise.”

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PicKell is still confident in Oklahoma’s room, even with leading rusher Kennedy Brooks leaving for the NFL. He rushed for 1,253 yards and 12 touchdowns last season after rejoining the program. Even the second leading rusher has left, with quarterback Caleb Williams following Riley to Los Angeles.

Gray finished third during the 2021 season, having 412 yards and two touchdowns. The former Tennessee transfer was also a threat out of the backfield, having 229 receiving yards and two touchdowns. He’s no doubt the top back in the Oklahoma program.

Behind him is Marcus Major, who is returning for a junior season. However, it’s two freshmen behind him who are creating a ton of buzz in Norman. Jovantae Barnes and Gavin Sawchuk will push for early playing time and Murray may have to give the youngsters touches behind Gray.

Offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby is known for his explosive play calling while at Ole Miss but at the end of the day, ground and pound will be the name of the game. Oklahoma will be too deep at running back to ignore all the talent, especially for a first-year head coach looking to make early statements.