Rattler was benched early in the second quarter after fumbling, despite the fact that the Sooners had the lead over the Texas Longhorns at the time. Brian Powers-USA TODAY Sports

Oklahoma QB Spencer Rattler temporarily benched for Tanner Mordecai

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated 10/10/20

The Oklahoma Sooners’ quarterback controversy is back after Lincoln Riley’s decision to temporarily bench Spencer Rattler in the first half.

Rattler was benched early in the second quarter after fumbling, despite the fact that the Sooners had the lead over the Texas Longhorns at the time. It was the second consecutive Oklahoma drive that ended with a Rattler turnover, and Tanner Mordecai replaced him.

Another Rattler turnover

He’s been benched for Tanner Mordecai early in the 2Q

(via @CFBONFOX)pic.twitter.com/OTjvdi6m8y

— Bleacher Report CFB (@BR_CFB) October 10, 2020

Fox Sports’ Jenny Taft reported at halftime that Riley said he “wanted to get Tanner involved” and Rattler was not injured. Proving the point, it was Rattler, not Mordecai, who opened the second half under center. Mordecai went a modest 5-of-7 for 52 yards and did little to seize the opportunity for himself.

Essentially, it seems Riley wanted to get Rattler out of the line of fire for a while and let him regroup mentally. Touted as a Heisman candidate before the season, little has gone Rattler’s way. He’s been prone to turnovers, and his team is 1-2. Riley is clearly a big fan, but the consistency and decision-making must improve.

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

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