Caleb Williams benched, then unbenched in OU's loss to Baylor

BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK

Caleb Williams benched, then unbenched in Oklahoma's upset loss to Baylor

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated 11/13/21

When Spencer Rattler was struggling earlier in the season, he was benched and replaced by Caleb Williams. Then tables have turned Saturday.

Oklahoma’s offense struggled mightily on Saturday against Baylor, with Williams in particular shouldering the blame. The freshman was just 8-for-17 for 84 yards with two interceptions well into the second half of the game.

Williams’ struggles inspired a “we want Rattler” chant from Sooners fans.

Oh now the Oklahoma fans want Spencer Rattler? pic.twitter.com/sQktAGbNnJ

— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) November 13, 2021

Those fans soon got their wish, as Rattler replaced Williams at quarterback late in the third quarter. Ultimately, it didn’t really jumpstart the struggling Oklahoma offense.

Williams has made some remarkable plays for Oklahoma this season. With an unbeaten season on the line and Williams struggling mightily, coach Lincoln Riley wasn’t left with much choice but to hope for something better from Rattler.

Rattler, a former five-star recruit, had been expected to leave Oklahoma at the end of the season. This is unlikely to change that, but it’s worth paying attention to.

Unfortunately for the Sooners, Rattler was unable to lead a miraculous comeback. Rattler went a measly 4-of-6 for 36 yards through the air and lost nine yards on three carries.

Rattler's futility eventually led to a Williams return. The benched, then unbenched starter would lead a touchdown drive in garbage time for the Sooners.

Oklahoma would go on to lose 27-14. It was the first loss of the year for the Sooners, and it throws their College Football Playoff hopes in doubt.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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