Sooners Kick Off Spring Practice

Originally Published: Mar 8, 2010 7:50 PM CDT

Gerald Goodridge
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

NORMAN, Oklahoma -- The Oklahoma Sooners kicked off Spring Practice Monday and one of their first orders of business is getting past the injuries that plagued the 2009 Sooners.

"All of the changes we had on offense with injuries, it was hectic," said Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops. "It was a struggle and it was a challenge for our offensive coaches to continue to find some continuity and rhythm in what we were trying to do. That's a lot of injuries on one side of the ball, and it changes things."

But injuries allowed young Sooners to get key playing time and improve before being thrust into the starting role for an entire season.

"I'm optimistic about this group, finishing the way we did with the last couple of games against Oklahoma State and Stanford," said Stoops. "There were some major strides where I believe we will be better."

Another problem area for Oklahoma a year ago was the offensive line. The Sooners gave up 15 sacks last season for 124 yards and 40 quarterback hurries in 2009, but the coaches are confident in the 2010 group.

"They've been one of our best groups in how they've worked and met the challenge every day and their attitude, so I'm pleased with where they're at right now -- or at least to this point, the work they've done," said Stoops.

OU will hold its second practice of the spring session Wednesday.