Freshman Ryan Fodje Set for First Career Start at Right Tackle for Oklahoma
Oklahoma will field a pair of true‑freshman starters on its offensive line this Saturday, as multiple sources confirmed to OUInsider.com that sophomore offensive tackle Ryan Fodje is slated to make his first career start at right tackle.
Fodje, a 6‑4, 310‑pound recruit from Texas, has been a regular contributor on special teams and has seen limited action in spot duty during the first two games of the season. With injuries sidelining the senior incumbent at right tackle and the coaching staff seeking to preserve depth on the line, Fodje earned the nod after impressing in practice with his pass‑blocking technique and ability to handle the run‑blocking assignments against larger defenders.
The Sooners will also start another true freshman at left tackle, creating the first instance of back‑to‑back freshman bookends on the line of scrimmage since the program’s 2020 season. The move reflects head coach Brent Venables’ willingness to give younger players meaningful experience early in the campaign, a strategy aimed at building a cohesive unit for the demanding conference schedule ahead.
Coaches declined to comment on specific game‑plan adjustments but indicated that the decision was driven by “the need to keep our best players on the field while rewarding the development of our younger talent.” Offensive line analysts noted that while the freshman starters lack the experience of veterans, their athleticism could provide the quickness needed to counter aggressive pass rushes from the opponent’s defensive front.
Looking ahead, the Sooners hope the freshman duo can hold their own against a formidable defensive line, allowing the offense to maintain its balanced attack. If the experiment proves successful, it may signal a broader shift toward integrating more underclassmen into critical roles as Oklahoma continues its push for a conference title this season.
