How OU football RB Gavin Sawchuk got into a ‘good rhythm’ entering Alamo Bowl vs. Arizona

NORMAN — Gavin Sawchuk got thrown into the fire during OU’s Cheez-It Bowl game against Florida State last season.

Due to the absence of lead running back Eric Gray, who opted out of the contest to prepare for the 2023 NFL Draft, Sawchuk found himself in an expanded role. It was a drastic change for the true freshman, who only ran the ball twice for five yards in the regular season.

But Sawchuk embraced it. He finished with 15 carries for 100 yards and one touchdown in the Cheez-It Bowl loss, and he quickly developed an appetite for being fed the ball often.

“I wouldn’t say it’s really a challenge at all,” Sawchuk said of his Cheez-It Bowl role on Aug. 15. “I think it’s exciting. I would love to have more carries (laughs). Sign me up. I’d love to.”

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OU running back Gavin Sawchuk (27) runs for a touchdown past BYU linebacker AJ Vongphachanh (10) on Nov. 18 at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah.

One year later, Sawchuk got his wish.

As OU prepares for its Alamo Bowl game against Arizona at 8:15 p.m. Thursday in San Antonio, Sawchuk is expected to have a large role once again.

But this time is different. Sawchuk is no longer a wide-eyed freshman. He’s not an under-the-radar talent, and he’s not a short-term solution in the run game.

Sawchuk is OU’s top running back. The redshirt freshman has recorded at least 100 rushing yards in each of the Sooners’ last four games, and he continues to make strides with each outing.

“Consistency in all of his habits,” head coach Brent Venables said of Sawchuk’s growth. “Habits lead to game reality. I think he’s really gotten into a good groove and confidence, and (he’s) healthy.

“He’s gotten into a good rhythm in the last several games. You’re seeing a more confident guy.”

Sawchuk…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/ou-football-rb-gavin-sawchuk-120229460.html

Author : The Oklahoman

Publish date : 2023-12-25 12:02:29

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