OU quarterback Dillon Gabriel, football is not a one-man show. He adamantly says, “It’s a team game. And this team, these guys – it’s all about creating the right energy and playing a great game.”
His comments come ahead of the highly-anticipated Big 12 opener against Cincinnati this Saturday. When probed if this could be his ‘revenge tour’, given that Cincinnati is among the only two teams to have bested him twice, he modestly sidesteps personal glory. Yet, with OU’s dominant 66-17 victory over Tulsa last weekend, all eyes are on the rematch with Cincinnati.
Gabriel’s remarkable gameplay has been a linchpin in the Sooners’ outstanding offensive stats, rivaling even the prolific numbers from the Lincoln Riley era.
Sooners’ Offense: A Statistical Snapshot
This season, the Sooners have showcased phenomenal stats: leading nationally in completion percentage (.832) and third-down conversions (.676), placing second in passing efficiency and delivering a whopping average of 55.7 points per game. Their cumulative score against opponents is an impressive 167-28. At the heart of this offensive surge? Dillon Gabriel.
Jeff Lebby, the offensive coordinator, speaks highly of Gabriel’s evolution since OU’s Cheez-It Bowl game against Florida State. His leadership, commitment, and undying spirit during the winter workouts caught Lebby’s attention. “He’s operating with a real edge and it’s essential he maintains this momentum,” Lebby noted.
For Gabriel, the ups and downs, especially last year’s 6-7 season finish – the first losing record since 1998 – have been formative. He believes in controlling the controllable, highlighting that “the difference in winning and losing is razor-thin. Prioritizing details and consistent high-level execution is key.”
As the season progresses, while maintaining his current stats might be challenging, his present 82.5% completion percentage and 220.4 passing efficiency rating are already threatening to break previous school records.
Sooner’s coach, Brent Venables, observes a more relaxed and joyful Gabriel. “He’s visibly enjoying the game more, and this sense of ease seems to have set in even before the season’s commencement.”
Gabriel’s mantra is straightforward – to remain in the moment, to stay grounded irrespective of past performances. This approach will be particularly essential for their upcoming road game.
Venables weighs in on Gabriel’s passion for the sport, noting that it’s pivotal to success. “Being genuinely passionate about what you’re doing is crucial. Dillon has always been confident, but possibly knowing this is his last college year is adding a different layer to his approach.”
What’s Next?
Football enthusiasts are keenly awaiting the OU vs. Cincinnati match, set to kick off at 11 a.m. this Saturday at Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. With a player like Gabriel on the field, it promises to be nothing short of electrifying.