Key Lawrence leads list of OU honorees
It’s a good day to be OU safety Key Lawrence. The third-year Sooner was recognized twice Monday for play on the field and his character off it.
Lawrence earned the highest grade of any safety this week, according to Pro Football Focus. Lawrence had three tackles in Oklahoma’s 20-6 win at Cincinnati. And of course, he had one of the biggest plays in the game with an interception in the end zone in the first half.
“He’s made great improvement,” head coach Brent Venables said. “He’s matured a great deal. Key has always been an incredibly likable guy from a competitive standpoint and a leadership standpoint. Being inside-out is where I’ve seen the most growth.
“His knowledge base has certainly improved, his fundamentals have improved. He’s become a really good leader and a great teammate. He lets you coach him hard. He’s made a lot of improvement and growth.”
Lawrence has also been named as one of OU’s five captains for Saturday’s game vs. Iowa State at 6 p.m. on FS1.
OU captains vs. Iowa State
Joining Lawrence will be running back Tawee Walker, wide receiver LV Bunkley-Shelton, defensive end Rondell Bothroyd and defensive end Marcus Stripling.
Some very experienced guys in this group and someone, like Stripling, who has adjusted to his role no matter what’s being asked.
“Marcus, maturity,” Venables said. “He’s a hard-playing dude. He’s got a better football IQ than where he was a year ago. Just his knowledge base and all the fundamentals that go along with that, so he’s improved in all those areas and created opportunity for himself through — that’s a hardworking teammate.
“He comes to work every day at practice. And being in your last year, that can’t be an easy thing when you want maybe more opportunity. So a lot of appreciation for Marcus just because of his workman-like attitude.”
OU, however, did not earn any Big 12 honors of the week despite another massive outing from linebacker Danny Stutsman.
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