REVEALED: Oklahoma Spring Depth Chart Preview: RBs Have Experience, But Who’s No. 1?

Oklahoma Running Backs: Plenty of Talent, But Who Takes the Lead?

As Oklahoma heads into spring practice, the running back room boasts a wealth of experience, but a true No. 1 option has yet to be determined. With the departure of Tawee Walker, the Sooners have a solid mix of returning veterans and promising young talent, making this one of the most intriguing position battles in Norman.

Returning Experience

The Sooners bring back two of their top contributors from last season: Jovantae Barnes and Gavin Sawchuk. Both backs showed flashes of brilliance in 2023 but dealt with injuries and inconsistent usage.

• Jovantae Barnes: As a freshman in 2022, Barnes made an immediate impact, rushing for 519 yards and five touchdowns. However, he struggled with injuries last season, limiting his effectiveness. If fully healthy, he has the size (6’0”, 205 lbs) and physical running style to be a workhorse back.
• Gavin Sawchuk: After a slow start last season, Sawchuk emerged late, finishing with 694 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. His breakout performance in the Alamo Bowl against Arizona (107 yards, two TDs) showed he can be a difference-maker in big games.

Both backs have starting experience, but neither has truly separated from the other.

The Wild Card: Kalib Hicks

A name to watch this spring is Kalib Hicks, a talented second-year player who saw limited action as a freshman. At 5’11” and 200 pounds, Hicks brings a mix of speed and power that could push him into the rotation. If he impresses in camp, he could challenge for more snaps.

Incoming Talent

Oklahoma also welcomes highly touted freshman Xavier Robinson, a bruising 6’2”, 225-pound back who could bring a physical edge to the Sooners’ run game. While it’s tough for true freshmen to crack the rotation early, Robinson’s size and skill set make him an intriguing option in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

Who Will Take the Lead?

Offensive coordinator Seth Littrell and running backs coach DeMarco Murray will have some tough decisions to make. Barnes and Sawchuk seem like the frontrunners, but Hicks and Robinson could shake things up. The spring depth chart might not provide a definitive answer, but the competition will set the tone for fall camp.

With a revamped offensive line and the arrival of five-star quarterback Jackson Arnold, Oklahoma’s run game will be critical to the team’s success in 2024. Whether it’s Barnes, Sawchuk, or a surprise candidate, the Sooners need a reliable No. 1 back to emerge.

Who will take the lead? That’s the biggest question Oklahoma fans will be watching this spring.