Crimson Countdown: No. 24 Marcus Major
The Crimson Countdown is officially on for the 2023 Oklahoma football season. It’s the second season under head coach Brent Venables and expectations are high once again. The Sooners are looking to rebound from the uncharacteristic 6-7 season in 2022.
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.
Crimson Countdown: No. 24 Marcus Major
2022 stats: 56 carries, 227 yards, 4 touchdowns
2023 outlook: Entering his fifth season in Norman, Major’s role is unclear in 2023. Major has been a good running back for Oklahoma in the past, rushing for 525 yards and seven touchdowns in his career. But he’s struggled to stay on the field for the Sooners, battling several different injuries.
Still, Major could be a key contributor for Oklahoma this season, as he is the most veteran back in the room. And he could be a good mentor for younger backs Jovantae Barnes and Gavin Sawchuk, who are expected to be OU’s leading rushers.
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“Without a doubt, Marcus has had a great start to camp,” offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby said. “So need to continue that trend, obviously we all know what he can do for us when he’s on the field and when he’s healthy. He’s got to stay that way. He’s had a good start.”
2023 running back outlook
Oklahoma will look to replace last season’s leading rusher Eric Gray, who is now a New York Giant. OU has several options with sophomore Jovantae Barnes and redshirt freshman Gavin Sawchuk as the frontrunners to start. Barnes was Oklahoma’s backup last season, but after suffering a foot injury in spring practice, the door has opene for Sawchuk. Oklahoma also welcomes a pair of true freshman in Daylan Smothers and Kalib Hicks. And don’t count out redshirt senior Marcus Major, who returns for his fifth season in Norman.
