Crimson Countdown: No. 40 Ethan Downs
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. 40 Ethan Downs
2022 stats: 38 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks
2023 outlook: Downs returns as one of Oklahoma’s most experienced defensive players, having started all 13 games last season for the Sooners. And he’s expected to start again for Oklahoma in 2023. From Weatherford, Okla., Downs was a three-star recruit out of high school and quickly became a contributor as a freshman, playing in all 13 games in 2021. But his sophomore season was a breakout year, earning second-team All-Big 12 honors. And he was named to the All-Big 12 preseason team for 2023 — the only Sooner to earn the honor.
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Downs will play a pivotal role for Oklahoma this season, as the defense looks to bounce back from a disappointing season. The junior will not only take on a big role on the field but he’s expected to be a key leader off the field as well.
2023 defensive end outlook
The Sooners made several additions to the defensive end room following the 2022 season. In the transfer portal, Oklahoma landed Wake Forest’s Rondell Bothroyd and Oklahoma State’s Trace Ford. Both figure to be key contributors. OU has also welcomes true freshman Adepoju Adebawore, who was one of the most sought-after recruits in the country in the 2023 class. Senior Reggie Grimes, junior Ethan Downs and sophomore R Mason Thomas all return as well, giving OU plenty of depth on the edge.
