Troy Everett, a key member of the Oklahoma Sooners’ offensive line, didn’t shy away from addressing the team’s struggles in the previous season. In the quote shared by Sooner Gridiron, Everett acknowledged the disappointment felt by fans, teammates, and himself: “Obviously, last year, everyone knows that wasn’t the standard here, and we let a lot of people down.” The Sooners, a program historically known for its dominance in college football, faced a challenging 2024 season, falling short of the expectations set by their storied legacy.
The Oklahoma Sooners, under head coach Brent Venables, have been working to rebuild and reestablish their identity after transitioning to the SEC, one of the most competitive conferences in college football. The 2024 season exposed vulnerabilities, particularly along the offensive line, where injuries, inexperience, and inconsistency plagued the unit. Everett’s admission reflects a broader sentiment within the program—a recognition that the team failed to meet the “Oklahoma standard,” a benchmark of excellence that has defined the Sooners for decades.
A Promise of Redemption
Despite the setbacks, Everett’s statement is not one of defeat but of resolve. He continued, “I promise you, this year it’s not going to happen.” This bold declaration signals a renewed sense of purpose for the young offensive lineman and his teammates as they progress through spring practice. Everett’s words carry weight, not just as a personal commitment but as a rallying cry for a program eager to reclaim its place among college football’s elite.
The accompanying image in the tweet captures Everett in the midst of a drill, his crimson jersey and helmet a symbol of the Sooners’ tradition. The intensity in his posture mirrors the determination in his words. Spring practice is a critical time for teams to lay the foundation for the upcoming season, and for Oklahoma, it’s an opportunity to address the weaknesses that hindered them in 2024. The offensive line, in particular, is a focal point, as a strong front is essential for protecting the quarterback and opening lanes for the running game—two areas where the Sooners struggled last year.
Young Talent Stepping Up
The SI.com article linked in the tweet, titled “How Oklahoma’s Young OL Are Growing Into Bigger Roles This Spring,” provides deeper insight into the development of the Sooners’ offensive line. Everett, along with other young linemen, is reportedly taking on a more significant role as the team prepares for the 2025 season. The article highlights how these players are gaining valuable experience and building chemistry under the guidance of offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh, widely regarded as one of the best in the business.
Bedenbaugh’s track record of developing NFL-caliber linemen gives fans reason to be optimistic. Players like Creed Humphrey and Orlando Brown Jr., both of whom have thrived in the NFL, are products of Bedenbaugh’s coaching at Oklahoma. For Everett and his fellow linemen, the spring of 2025 represents a chance to grow into the kind of dominant unit that has historically anchored the Sooners’ success.
Fan Reaction and Expectations
The tweet from Sooner Gridiron resonated with Oklahoma fans, as evidenced by its engagement metrics. The #BoomerSooner hashtag and the mention of
@johnEhoover, a well-known figure in Sooners media, further amplified the post’s reach. Fans are hungry for a return to form, and Everett’s promise has sparked hope that the 2025 season will mark a turning point for the program.
However, with high expectations comes intense scrutiny. Oklahoma fans, known for their passionate support, will be watching closely to see if Everett and the Sooners can deliver on this promise. The move to the SEC has raised the stakes, with the Sooners facing a gauntlet of tough opponents in the upcoming season. A strong offensive line will be crucial if Oklahoma hopes to compete with the likes of Texas, Georgia, and Alabama.
Looking Ahead
As spring practice continues, all eyes will be on Troy Everett and the Oklahoma offensive line. The unit’s growth will play a pivotal role in determining the Sooners’ success in 2025. Everett’s acknowledgment of past shortcomings, paired with his commitment to improvement, sets a tone of accountability and ambition for the team.
For Oklahoma, the path to redemption starts on the practice field. If Everett and his teammates can translate their spring progress into on-field results, the Sooners may well reclaim their place among college football’s elite. As Everett put it, “This year it’s not going to happen”—a promise that Sooners fans are counting on him to keep.
