Tulsa Player to Watch, Day 5: Brandon Thomas

Oklahoma Sports brings you the fifth day in a 15-part series detailing what players to keep an eye on next season.

Thursday, May 26th 2011, 11:30 am

By: News On 6

Tulsa Player to Watch, Day 5: Brandon Thomas

Originally Published: Feb 19, 2010 4:22 PM CDT

Also on Oklahoma Sports:
- OU Player to Watch, Day 5: Tyler Evans
-OSU Player to Watch, Day 5: Johnny Thomas

Andrew Topps
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

RT Brandon Thomas

Background:

Thomas was one of many starters along the offensive line for Tulsa as a sophomore. He played in three games as a freshman for the Golden Hurricane.

Why He’s on the List:

It was a tough year for Thomas making the transition as a full-time starter. Tulsa gave up the third-most sacks in the nation last year en route to its worst season since 2004. Thomas got beat on more than his fair share of occasions, but really, the whole offensive line could be on the list.

Best Case Scenario:

After a year “in the fire,” Thomas gains more maturity and now realizes what it takes to play at this level. If he combines his physical tools with the mental aspect of the game, he could become the road-grating right tackle Hurricane fans are hoping for.

Worst Case Scenario:

Thomas’ confidence is shot, which forces quarterback G.J. Kinne to run for his life once again. It all starts up front in football and without a solid line the Hurricane offensive attack went from top two to middle-of-the-pack.

My Take:

Thomas has the size - 6-foot-5, 300-pounds - to develop into a dominant right tackle in Conference USA. Other than quarterback, offensive line is the position where most players experience their biggest improvement after a year of starting. If Thomas can combine the physical with the mental, then he will be a player to watch out for in 2010.

Other Tulsa players to watch (click the names below to read the full stories)
Day 1: QB G.J. Kinne
Day 2: WR/KR Damaris Johnson
Day 3: LB Tanner Antle
Day 4: WR Trae Johnson