In a recent development, Oklahoma Sooners’ true freshman quarterback, Michael Hawkins Jr., has reaffirmed his commitment to the team amidst a season of challenges and transitions. Despite a tumultuous year that saw the departure of sophomore quarterback Jackson Arnold, who entered the transfer portal following a series of inconsistent performances, Hawkins has emerged as a beacon of resilience and leadership for the Sooners.
Hawkins’ journey this season has been marked by significant learning experiences. After replacing Arnold during a game against Tennessee, where Arnold struggled with turnovers, Hawkins showcased his potential by completing 11 of 18 passes for 132 yards and a touchdown. His performance earned him the starting position in subsequent games, including a notable comeback victory against Auburn, where he demonstrated remarkable poise under pressure.
Reflecting on his season, Hawkins stated, “It was great. A lot of learning opportunities. For me, I feel like I’ve grown so much from that game and just the whole season, regardless of what happened and the good times. I feel like I’ve learned a lot and developed myself more.”
As the Sooners prepare for the upcoming Armed Forces Bowl against Navy on December 27, Hawkins remains focused on leading his team to a strong finish. His commitment and growth throughout the season have been pivotal for Oklahoma, especially during a period marked by coaching changes and roster adjustments.
Looking ahead, Hawkins is enthusiastic about working with newly appointed offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle. He expressed, “He’s a great guy, real personal. Someone you can relate to since he’s so young and he’s really shown his personality since he’s gotten here. So he’s been a great guy to be around so far.”
Leave a Reply