Crimson Countdown: No. 6 Nigel Smith
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.
Crimson Countdown: No. 6 Nigel Smith
2023 stats: N/A
2024 outlook: The Melissa (Texas) native was a part of last year’s freshman defensive line class that was celebrated for good reason. Best of all, the former On3 4-star walks into a position unit that is possibly one of Oklahoma’s most veteran led, learning the tricks of the trade from the likes of Ethan Downs, Trace Ford, R. Mason Thomas and Caiden Woullard sure won’t hurt. A redshirt year could be on-deck during his rookie campaign but the wait will be worth it for Nigel Smith. He’s most certainly one the names next in line to star for Miguel Chavis.
2024 Defensive End Outlook:
OU has a good mix of experience and talent at the defensive end position in 2024. The old guys for the Sooners are Ethan Downs, Trace Ford and Miami Ohio transfer Caiden Woullard. Downs is the unquestioned leader of the group, entering his fourth and final season for OU. But OU does have a host of young guys looking to contribute and possibly start. R Mason Thomas and PJ Adebawore both feel like players who could have breakout seasons in Norman. And freshmen Nigel Smith and Danny Okoye are hoping to find some sort role in 2024.
