Oklahoma lineman perseveres

(Norman-AP) -- Perseverance is paying off for Oklahoma offensive tackle Scott Kempenich.

After battling through losing seasons, injuries and rehabilitation, the senior is now starting at right tackle, and is an Outland Trophy candidate for the top-ranked Sooners.

Kempenich was redshirted as a freshman while O-U went three-and-eight. He started all but the first game the next year as Oklahoma finished four-and-eight.

A stress fracture, then a knee injury limited Kempenich to parts of two games the next year. The following season the stress fracture flared up and he underwent surgery.

He had bone graft surgery this past spring, but recovered in time for fall workouts and says he's now just caught up in the moment.

Kempenich and 21 fellow seniors will be playing their final home game on Saturday against Texas Tech.