The OU football team secured a 16-12 victory against Houston at home on Saturday, improving their season record to 2-0. The win was particularly challenging as the team faced multiple injuries.
In their Week 2 matchup, wide receiver Nic Anderson and linebacker Dasan McCullough remained inactive after missing the previous game against Temple.
The offensive line struggled with injuries as well, with Branson Hickman, Geirean Hatchett, Troy Everett, and Isaiah Autry-Dent unable to play. Joshua Bates and Jake Taylor started at center and right tackle, respectively. However, Taylor had to leave the game in the second quarter and did not return. As a result, Michael Tarquin moved to right tackle, and Logan Howland came in at left tackle.
Cornerback Gentry Williams exited in the second quarter due to a suspected right shoulder injury. This was particularly concerning as he had previously missed three games last season for a similar issue and had undergone labrum surgery in the offseason.
Wide receiver Deion Burks had his left forearm checked by trainers during the second quarter but continued to play in the second half, ending the game with nine receptions for 53 yards.
The injury challenges continued as linebacker Kip Lewis sustained an injury while tackling during the opening drive of the third quarter. He was able to return later and finished the game with four tackles.