A Whale of a time.

After the departure of DeMarco Murray to the NFL, many among the Sooner faithful wondered who was going to fill the shoes of the multi-purpose, record setting running back.  Not that there is lack of talent or depth at the position, but we're talking about someone who scored more touchdowns than Steve Owens and Billy Sims (two Heisman trophy winners, I might add).  You just don't replace that kind of production overnight.


All Murray did during his 4 year career was rack up 65 total touchdowns, a number that is made impressive when considering a couple of things: 

1. He suffered season ending injuries during his freshman and sophomore years, and was severely limited by a high ankle sprain during his junior year.
2. In the Bob Stoops era, Oklahoma has been more committed to passing; a completely different mindset from the famed "wishbone" offense that was a staple for the Sooners for almost two decades (from the 1970s and 80's).

The names familiar to fans were the "usual suspects"; Brennan Clay, Jermie Calhoun, Roy Finch (who wowed the crowds during spot appearances last fall), and Brandon Williams (a highly touted freshman).  However, word got out that there was guy named Dominique Whaley who was making waves during spring and summer drills.

Whaley, a walk-on and Lawton, OK native, wasn't even a starter during a stint at Langston University.  At night's end, his numbers were: 18 carries for 131 yards and 4 touchdowns.  Here's just a few of the things he accomplished.

1. 1st walk-on running back to rush for 100 yards in 36 years (Jim Culbreath in 1974) 
2. Most rushing touchdowns by a walk-on in a single game
3. 2nd Sooner to score 4 touchdowns in their debut (DeMarco Murray in 2007)
4. His 100+ rushing effort on his debut saw him join a list that includes names such as Adrian Peterson. 

Simply put, Whaley walked on to campus, onto the football field, and right into school history books.  Given that Oklahoma's running game wasn't exactly a strength last season, it will be interesting to see how other running backs get in the mix, now that we know Oklahoma will employ a "running-back by committee" format.

Oklahoma have the weekend off as they await their September 17th showdown against Florida State.  Until then, take a bow Dominique Whaley, you've earned your spot in the limelight.