Previewing Oklahoma and Vanderbilt with Kevin Ingram

The final score didn’t reflect it, but the Sooners were outmuscled and simply outworked in their recent loss to Texas A&M. One standout statistic is the rebounding differential: the Aggies grabbed 47 rebounds compared to just 19 for Porter Moser’s team. Now, the focus shifts to Saturday’s home game against 24th-ranked Vanderbilt, followed by a matchup with the top-ranked Auburn Tigers next week. OU aims to "rebound" in more ways than one.

To preview Saturday’s contest, I spoke with the Commodores' Hoops Voice, Kevin Ingram.

Craig: It seems from a far that this has been a well balanced team from an offensive production standpoint. Am I correct in that assessment?

Kevin: No doubt, this has been a very balanced team, especially in SEC play with 6 players averaging between 8 and 14 points in conference games. Mark Byington and his staff have done a great job taking a group of guys who hadn't played together and making them into a cohesive team that's had a terrific season.

One thing I've liked (and so have the coaches) is this group's toughness. All the SEC games are so difficult, and this team has weathered storms in most every game, in some cases rallying from big deficits to get back close. Vandy led by 14 at halftime against Kentucky, saw the Wildcats go on a big run to lead by 7, but then VU made some shots and steadied things and was able to make the plays it took to win.

Craig: Talk about Jason Edwards and what he’s brought to the table this season.

Kevin: Jason Edwards is a very reliable scorer, the main reason he's not averaging more in SEC play is that he took a knee to the thigh at LSU and wasn't the same for a couple games. Edwards can put it on the floor and drive, and he has a quick release on his 3 point shot that allows him to get it away ahead of a close out. Edwards and Tyler Nickel have shot well from 3 in the SEC games. Devin McGlockton has been really consistent, he and Jaylen Carey are the main big guys, both can hit 3's. Great experience at the point from AJ Hoggard, who played in a lot of big games at Michigan State. MJ Collins, Chris Manon and Grant Huffman are good defenders, along with the freshman Tyler Tanner, who brings the energy and still has not committed a live ball turnover.

Craig: Any final thoughts on the matchup?

Kevin: This should be a fun game at Norman. It’s really important for both teams.