Crimson Countdown: No. 11 Kobie McKinzie, as we are now 11 days away from the season opener vs. Illinois State.
The Crimson Countdown is officially on for the 2025 Oklahoma football season. Everybody wants to forget about 2024 and move forward.
Head coach Brent Venables and staff have attempted to do that. New face calling the offense (Ben Arbuckle). Venables calling the defense, it’s now or never for this regime at OU in the SEC. No beating around the bush.
Every day as we get closer to kickoff, SoonerScoop.com will count down the days with you. Starting with No. 99 and working our way to No. 0, we’ll be there every step of the way.
Crimson Countdown: No. 11 Kobie McKinzie
2024 stats: Played in 13 games, started two, 30 tackles, three for loss, 1.5 sacks
2025 outlook:
You know that McKinzie wants to be the leader of the OU defense. But if you’re going to be that guy, you’re going to have to earn it on the field.
And McKinzie is in a battle for one of those starting inside linebacker spots. There doesn’t feel like there will be a wrong answer between McKinzie and Sammy Omosigho, but you now McKinzie wants to be that guy.
Another example of one of those four-year guys in the Venables system. Staying through the twists and turns, developing and getting better each season. This should be the breakout season for McKinzie.
He’s had some moments, and then there are times where he has even said he didn’t take advantage of his chances.
Nobody is counting out McKinzie, but he needs that type of season where he cements himself as a permanent fixture on the defense.
2025 inside linebacker outlook
OU should feel pretty strong about its group, at least initially. It feels like a quality three guys going for two spots. And then whoever doesn’t start between Kobie McKinzie, Kip Lewis and Sammy Omosigho, will see plenty of time in the rotation. The key will be to develop just a little more depth. That’s what preseason camp has all been about. You can trust and feel confident with this trio but beyond that? It’s when you start to wonder. Trying to stay fresh and stay healthy is imperative in 2025.
Category: General Sports
