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How Hybl Got His Groove Back November 4, 2001 by Jason Waganer Executive Editor
The Oklahoma football team remembered what it was like to dominate a game both offensively and defensively Saturday afternoon as it crushed pathetic Tulsa 58-0. Starting the game in place of injured QB Jason White, Nate Hybl looked very good in OU's dominating performance.
After starting OU's first six games at QB, Hybl was moved to second team for the Baylor and Nebraska games. Hybl returned to the starting role after White suffered a partially torn ACL in last weekend's loss to Nebraska. In his first game back in the saddle, Hybl was 36-48 for 347 yards and two TD passes.
Hybl's goal for the Tulsa game was to prove to the fans, coaches and most importantly, his teammates that he can get the job done and lead the Sooners to their second straight National Championship.
"It's just a matter of getting out there and gaining confidence," said Hybl. "I knew all the reads and was in a good rhythm at the beginning of the season. I just needed to get back in there and get myself back on track. I had a goal of going out and showing my confidence to my teammates. I wanted that to reflect on them and I'm happy that things went the way they did."
For OU to make that run towards the championship, Sooner fans and players better hope Hybl proved to himself his abilities and potential are capable. Although Coach Bob Stoops claims White will return this season, there is little doubt that Hybl will be called upon again to lead the team.
Sooner Notes:
* It appears the Sooners could have more first team All-Americans this year than last year's team. It seems like Frank Romero, Trent Smith, Jeff Ferguson, Rocky Calmus and Roy Williams should all be there. Several other players have a good shot at making the second and third teams.
*There's no doubt that the offensive MVP right now is Trent Smith. Yesterday Smith broke an OU record for the most receptions over a four game span with 34. He has a total of 46 catches this season.
*Call me crazy, but I'd expect to see Brandon Jones take over the punt returning duties full-time next week against A&M. The true freshman had 150 yards in returns for his debut, which is the second all-time total for one game.
*Is the slump over? Kicker Tim Duncan has now connected on six straight field goal attempts after a nasty slump a few games ago. The Sooners will definitely need Duncan for another legitimate title run.
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