Crimson Countdown: No. 20 Samuel Franklin
The Crimson Countdown is officially on for the 2024 Oklahoma football season. Fans have been waiting for what feels like forever with this one. The Sooners are finally and officially joining the SEC.
The 2023 season was a rebound one for head coach Brent Venables, getting the program back to its standard. OU went 10-3 in Venables’ second season, now it’s time for year No. 3.
Every day as we get closer to kickoff, SoonerScoop.com will count down the days with you. Starting with No. 99 and working our way to No. 0, we’ll be there every step of the way.
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Crimson Countdown: No. 20 Samuel Franklin
2023 stats (at UT Martin): 1,386 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns on 223 carries
2024 outlook: Franklin was added from the portal as a depth piece for the Sooners. He was one of the best running backs in the country at the FCS level in 2023. But he will have to earn playing time for OU. There are a couple of veterans in front of Franklin, as well as some talented young players in DeMarco Murray’s room. But Franklin still provides experience and has been productive throughout his career.
2024 running back outlook
The running back room is a bit of a mystery heading into 2024. Oklahoma feels great about Gavin Sawchuk, after he finished the season five consecutive 100-yard rushing performances. He’s the leader to start for OU. But after him, it’s a bit of an open competition. Junior Jovantae Barnes returns after a weird 2023 season as he battled an injury. Redshirt freshman Kalib Hicks and UT Martin transfer Sam Franklin are also competing for roles in 2024. And freshmen Taylor Tatum and Xavier Robinson will look to find their footing in their first year. Tatum was ranked as the No. 1 running back in the 2024 class and could find his way onto the field quickly.
