Iowa State football interview: Talking with Oklahoma blog Stormin’ in Norman

By Brian Spaen | Oct 31, 2014

We have an interview with FanSided’s Oklahoma Sooners’ blog, Stormin’ in Norman, on the upcoming game with the Iowa State Cyclones in Ames on Saturday. We ask about Trevor Knight‘s performance so far this season, Oklahoma’s 2-2 start in Big 12 play, and what it takes for the team to get back to national title contention.

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Clones Confidential: Trevor Knight has been overshadowed by a couple of other Big 12 quarterbacks like Clint Trickett and Trevone Boykin. What are your thoughts on his play so far this season?

Stormin’ in Norman: Knight’s been much improved since last season, but I think he’s being held back by some questionable play-calling. We haven’t seen the Knight who tore up Alabama, however, we might not ever see him play as great as he did that night. I’m hoping he can continue to improve his passing ability. If not, Baker Mayfield may have a serious shot at the starting job next season.

CC: Oklahoma has started off Big 12 play with a surprising 2-2 record. What’s been the biggest problems so far this season?

SIN: The biggest problem for Oklahoma is competition. They’ve played against some really quality defenses, and the offense is still having trouble establishing an identity. It’s been a tough road so far, but I think the Big 12 has just been a lot better than I think any one could have imagined. Hopefully, Oklahoma can finish strong and sneak in to a quality bowl game.

Nov 16, 2013; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Kendal Thompson (1) runs the ball against Iowa State Cyclones Iowa State Cyclones linebacker Jeremiah George (52) in the second half at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

CC: We know that Oklahoma had high expectations for a national title this year. How is the temperature of the fanbase toward Bob Stoops overall?

SIN: It’s pretty mixed. I think more of the tension is directed toward offensive coordinator Josh Heupel, however, fans seem pretty disappointed OU couldn’t get it done after all the preseason hype.

CC: What will it take for Oklahoma to get back into the national championship race?

SIN: Oklahoma needs to find a competent play-caller. Plus, OU needs to stay healthy. It won’t happen this season, but Oklahoma’s demeanor hasn’t been the one of a championship football team in a long time. Oklahoma in 2008 had the offense, but not the defense. You could argue the 8-5 2009 team had the defense, but not the offense.

It seems like timing is always holding Oklahoma back. Winning a title is very difficult, though. OU just needs to find some consistency within its program and I think it’s beginning to get better with a few of the assistants Stoops has brought on.

CC: Any key matchups that you’ll be looking at against the Iowa State offense or defense?

SIN: The thing I’m looking forward to seeing is how well Oklahoma defends Sam Richardson. They haven’t been so great at defending running quarterbacks. Plus, I think Iowa State’s E.J. Bibbs could abuse Oklahoma if he can find open space. This defense will be tested from all areas, and I’m hoping they’re up for the challenge.

Stormin’ in Norman’s final thoughts:

If Oklahoma can forget the mental errors, they’ll be fine. I see Oklahoma winning something along the lines of 45-28. Hopefully it’ll be an entertaining ball game.