WATCH: Oklahoma's Spencer Rattler scores on first pass since benching

Late in the game against Texas Tech, Oklahoma quarterback Spencer Rattler stepped onto the field. It was his first action since he was benched for true freshman Caleb Williams in the Red River Rivalry game.

With all eyes in Norman fixed on him, Rattler stepped back for his first passing attempt late in the fourth quarter. He lobbed a 42-yard bomb to Brian Darby, who fought off a pair of Tech defenders to secure the touchdown.

RIDICULOUS 42 yard TD catch by Brian Darby from Spencer Rattler! #Sooners pic.twitter.com/5Jtm82g3ji

— ✯✯✯✯✯ (@FTBVids_YT) October 30, 2021

The touchdown put the Sooners in front 52-14 with around six minutes left to play. Williams, who rested for remainder of the blowout, had thrown for an OU freshman record 402 yards and six touchdowns when Rattler entered.

Teammates rushed to the sidelines to congratulate Rattler following his touchdown pass. Oklahoma coach Lincoln Riley said in a postgame interview on the broadcast that was a welcome sight.

“It was awesome,” Riley said. “The narrative outside is not what happens inside. I think everybody saw that. It was great for the fans to respond and the whole team to respond. That room has been great. Caleb’s been great. Spencer’s been great. They’ve been a joy to coach.”

Oklahoma went on to win 52-21 over Texas Tech, with the touchdown from Spencer Rattler being the last OU score. The victory improved the Sooners to 9-0 on the year as it enters a bye in Week 10.

There has been much discussion regarding Rattler and whether he will stick around in Norman following this season, with Williams sure to remain the starting quarterback. He hasn’t entered the transfer portal yet, however, and gives the Sooners one of the best backups in all of college football.

Following its off week, Oklahoma will hit the road to take on No. 16 Baylor. It is the beginning of a challenging stretch, as the Sooners’ final three games of the season come against currently ranked opponents.