Oklahoma Football News: Running back competition update, decision by opener?

In this Oklahoma football news and rumors update, Oklahoma Sooner head coach Bob Stoops doesn't expect to have a clear idea of who the team's #1 running back will be heading into August 30th's opener against Louisiana Tech.

With Brennan Clay, Damien Williams, and Roy Finch no longer on the squad (after accounting for 1,857 of the team's 2,911 rushing yards last season), Stoops turns to a duo who amassed 153 total rushing yards in 2013 (Keith Ford and Alex Ross) and freshman Samaje Perine.

There has been no real separation between the three running backs in camp, per Brandon Chatman of ESPN.com, leaving the competition still wide open heading into the season.

"They're all getting snaps now and we'll see how they do early," Stoops stated. "A lot will be determined in what they do in their initial opportunities."

Ford's physicality and Ross' solid combination of size and speed make them legitimate candidate, but the talent of the true freshman, Perine, could end up playing a huge role in how things turn out.

"He's one of the freshman that has an opportunity to contribute," co-offensive coordinator Jay Norvell stated. "He's a big physical kid, he's taking care of the football and we're gaining confidence in him every day. He runs with his pads very well and he's learned quickly. Kids that play as freshman carry themselves with maturity."

"And he's done that."

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