The Oklahoma Sooners weren't able to build upon their dominant opening-game win over the University of Texas at El Paso Miners, as they fell 17-10 to the Michigan Wolverines on the road. The Sooners struggled on the offensive line, as they again had to reshuffle that unit.
Oklahoma was able to get back center Jake Maikkula and Ryan Fodje, who started at left tackle against the Wolverines. Both missed the first game against UTEP. However, they were down star left tackle Michael Fasusi, who appeared to aggravate a shoulder injury in the first game.
Brent Venables was asked about Fasusi's availability moving forward. Venables said they expect it to be a short-term injury.
"We knew Mike wasn't going to play today," Venables said. "It will be short-term."
The timing of Fasusi's absence was particularly notable. Oklahoma entered the season expecting him to be an important piece of the offensive line, but the Sooners had to make another adjustment for their first major test of the season.
Maikkula and Fodje returning provided some needed reinforcement, but Oklahoma still struggled to consistently protect John Mateer and establish offense against Michigan. The Sooners finished with just 289 yards and converted three-of-13 third-down opportunities in the 17-10 loss.
The offensive struggles weren't entirely the fault of the line, but the lack of continuity up front didn't make things easier against a Michigan defense that consistently created pressure. Oklahoma's loss to Michigan exposed several areas that still need improvement, but the offensive line may be near the top of the list. Getting Fasusi back would give the Sooners another proven piece as they look to stabilize the unit.
Venables' "short-term" description is encouraging, especially considering Fasusi had already battled the shoulder issue in the offseason before returning to practice ahead of the opener. The Sooners now have time to regroup before their next game, and Fasusi's recovery will be worth watching closely. Oklahoma's offense needs to find its rhythm, and having one of its best offensive linemen back could go a long way toward helping the Sooners get there.
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This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: Brent Venables gives update on Michael Fasusi after loss to Michigan
