One reason fans were optimistic the Oklahoma Sooners' run game would improve this season was the return of their top two running backs from last season, along with four starting offensive linemen.
However, those two running backs, Xavier Robinson and Tory Blaylock, have been injured, and the four offensive linemen haven't played a game together due to injuries. Blaylock led the Sooners with 480 yards and four scores last season. He's battled injuries since camp and has just 45 yards on 17 carries this season. He received his most playing time in the previous game, totaling seven carries for 23 yards.
Offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle said he feels Blaylock is returning to his old self.
"He's really starting to look like the Tory that we all know,
the Tory that we have seen play football before," Arbuckle said. "The Tory who showed up at South Carolina last year. He's starting to look like that again... I'm proud of how Tory has battled back from the setback he had early on in the season."
Blaylock's return to form could provide a timely boost for an Oklahoma offense that has struggled to establish a consistent rushing attack. Injuries have disrupted the Sooners' plan throughout the season, limiting continuity in both the running back room and on the offensive line. Getting Blaylock back to his previous level of production would give the offense another backfield option and potentially take some pressure off John Mateer.
As the Sooners prepare to face the Mississippi State Bulldogs, Blaylock will have a chance to build on his increased workload against Kentucky. The coaching staff will need to balance getting him more involved with ensuring he continues to recover, but his progress offers a reason for optimism. If Oklahoma gets healthier up front and its returning backs regain production, the ground game could become a more dependable part of the offense in the second half of the season.
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This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: Tory Blaylock shows signs of returning to pre-injury form
