NORMAN — The University of Oklahoma football program is taking precautionary measures ahead of its first home game since the serious injury sustained by Keontez Lewis during a matchup against Kent State on October 4. In an effort to enhance player safety, padding is being installed on both end zone walls and the sideline walls adjacent to the team bench areas, as confirmed by an OU athletics spokesperson.
Lewis suffered a frightening collision with a brick wall in the north end zone but impressively returned to the field just a week later to face Texas. However, he did not play in the recent game against South Carolina and is currently listed as doubtful for the upcoming contest against Ole Miss on Saturday.
The Sooners are set to kick off against the Rebels at 11 a.m. on Saturday. The installation of safety padding underscores the program’s commitment to protecting its players and preventing future injuries. This proactive approach is likely to provide peace of mind not only for the team and its players but also for fans attending the games, knowing that player safety is a priority.
Colton Sulley covers the Oklahoma Sooners for The Oklahoman. For story ideas, he can be contacted via email or on X/Twitter. Support from readers by subscribing to digital content is encouraged to help sustain quality journalism.