Grinch's impact on linebackers expected to be significant
NORMAN — Last season, Curtis Bolton entered spring camp as little more than an afterthought. But Bolton eventually knocked off Caleb Kelly for a starting role and became one of Oklahoma's best defenders a year ago. Now, Bolton is gone and under new defensive coordinator Alex Grinch and new inside linebackers coach Brian Odom, the group is expected to take a step forward. The Sooners begin spring practice Thursday and leading up to that day, The Oklahoman will preview each position group, taking a look at the linebackers on Wednesday: Scholarship player lost: Curtis Bolton Key players returning: Levi Draper, RSo.; Ryan Jones, RSo.; Caleb Kelly, Sr.; Bryan Mean, RJr.; Kenneth Murray, Jr.; Jon-Michael Terry, RJr.; DaShain White, So. Newcomers: Jonathan Perkins, Fr.; David Ugwoegbu, Fr. THREE STORYLINES TO WATCH
Odom and Grinch’s impact
When defensive coordinator Alex Grinch and inside linebackers coach Brian Odom were introduced, they talked about their single-gap defense being a cornerstone of their philosophy. That goes along with their plan to rely on speedy defenders. “This is an effort-based defense not a schemebased defense,” Odom said. “We're gonna put a premium on athleticism as we recruit. Speed is gonna be a huge deal for us.” While the Sooners added two linebackers in recruiting — Jonathan Perkins and David Ugwoegbu — and they could find roles quickly, especially Ugwoegbu, the players from last year's defense will play the majority of the time. Odom and Grinch figure to tinker some with positions as they work to find the right combination of players to make the greatest impact.
Where is Kelly?
Last season, Caleb Kelly moved to weakside linebacker and was expected by most to start there. But Bolton ultimately beat him out, and the thought of redshirting Kelly gained serious traction before he moved back to the outside late in the season. The move was successful, as Kelly was one of Oklahoma's top playmakers after his move. So where does Kelly play this season? The likelihood is that he stays outside to play on the strongside and Oklahoma looks to replace Bolton in the middle.
Kenneth Murray’s help inside
If Murray stays on the outside, that leaves a hole where Bolton starred a year ago. Kenneth Murray, now a junior, will man one of the middle spots once again, but the other inside spot figures to be up in the air. Levi Draper, a redshirt sophomore, is a possibility there, but sophomore DaShaun White might have the best shot at earning the job. White earned positive reviews last year as a freshman. Murray, who came to OU as an outside linebacker, could slide over to the weakside spot especially if White is the choice to join him with the starters.