As the NFL playoffs progress, several teams feature players with notable connections to Oklahoma, either through collegiate careers or state origins. Here’s a breakdown of these players and their contributions:
**Cincinnati Bengals:**
– **Joe Mixon (Running Back):** A former University of Oklahoma standout, Mixon has been instrumental in the Bengals’ offensive success. In the 2023 Divisional Round against the Buffalo Bills, he rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his pivotal role in Cincinnati’s backfield.
– **Samaje Perine (Running Back):** Also an Oklahoma alumnus, Perine complements Mixon in the backfield. In the same game against the Bills, he contributed 64 total yards, demonstrating his versatility and value as a reliable second option.
– **Tre Flowers (Cornerback):** An Oklahoma State University product, Flowers joined the Bengals after starting his career with the Seattle Seahawks. His experience and skills add depth to Cincinnati’s secondary, making him a valuable asset in pass defense.
**Kansas City Chiefs:**
– **Blake Bell (Tight End):** Known as the “Belldozer” during his time at the University of Oklahoma, Bell has been a reliable target for the Chiefs. In the 2023 Divisional Round against the Jacksonville Jaguars, he recorded a reception, contributing to Kansas City’s offensive efforts.
– **Orlando Brown Jr. (Offensive Tackle):** Another Oklahoma alumnus, Brown anchors the Chiefs’ offensive line at left tackle, providing crucial protection for quarterback Patrick Mahomes and facilitating the team’s dynamic offense.
– **Creed Humphrey (Center):** A former Sooner, Humphrey has quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Kansas City’s offensive line, starting at center and ensuring stability in both pass protection and run blocking.
**Philadelphia Eagles:**
– **Jalen Hurts (Quarterback):** Hurts transferred to the University of Oklahoma for his senior collegiate season, where he showcased his dual-threat capabilities. As the Eagles’ starting quarterback, he has been instrumental in their offensive success, leading the team with both his arm and legs.
– **Lane Johnson (Offensive Tackle):** An Oklahoma alumnus, Johnson is a stalwart on the Eagles’ offensive line, starting at right tackle and providing essential protection and run support.
**San Francisco 49ers:**
– **Trent Williams (Offensive Tackle):** A former Sooner, Williams is regarded as one of the premier left tackles in the NFL. His presence on the 49ers’ offensive line is pivotal in both pass protection and the running game, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive efficiency.
These players exemplify the strong football heritage of Oklahoma, making significant impacts on their respective teams as t look hey vie for the Super Bowl.
Leave a Reply