'Special' RB Tory Blaylock Continued Dynamic Start to Oklahoma Career Against Temple

In the first half, Blaylock got to the corner and darted 18 yards down the sideline for a score. At the time, it was OU’s second-longest rushing play of the year and the longest run by one of DeMarco Murray’s running backs. 

“He’s not a true freshman,” offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle said. “His mindset, the way he shows up every day in the building and at practice and how he understands everything the offense asks. He’s not a true freshman. He’s a stud. He prepares like a stud.”

In the second half, Blaylock popped a 25-yard run. 

That run stood as the longest rushing play of the year for the Sooners (3-0) until quarterback John Mateer outran the Temple defense for a 51-yard touchdown… on the very next snap. 

Still, Blaylock’s performance was a welcome addition to aid Mateer’s own 75-yard day on the ground. 

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“I feel like every game I'm kind of getting under my feet, Blaylock said. “As a freshman and getting out there, you're a little nervous and shaky at first, but with more games under my belt, obviously I'm gonna get more comfortable."

Mateer had another nice day through the air. 

He completed 21-of-37 passes for 287 yards and a score, as well as throwing one interception. 

But every member of the Sooners’ offense knows they have to continue to take strides in the running game to stay balanced once SEC play starts next week against No. 24 Auburn. 

“Establishing the run game, that’s key No. 1 of our offense and the winning edge is establishing the run,” Arbuckle said. “Seeing those guys gain more confidence, seeing those guys stick their foot and get downhill faster, seeing our offensive line build some good continuity, opening up some lanes for them, it’s exciting. 

“It’s crucial for offensive success. Definitely exciting, something we have to keep building on, keep getting better at. Wasn’t perfect. There are going to be a lot of learns on the tape. I’m excited for that.”

The Sooners haven’t gotten the expected production from California transfer Jaydn Ott through three weeks, but if Blaylock can carry Saturday’s momentum into SEC play, Oklahoma will still have a dynamic back to pair with Mateer. 

“He’s super impressive,” Mateer said. “He’s so mature and nothing that you put in front of him is too much, he takes it all and he learns really quickly. 

“And I think that’s what makes him so special.”