Starting left tackle Michael Fasusi, who’s been sidelined since Week 1 with a shoulder injury, is now listed as doubtful for Oklahoma’s Saturday night showdown against Kentucky, and he’ll likely miss the game. This isn’t just a tough break for the Sooners; it’s a massive hit to an offensive line that is already dealing with a lot.
Oklahoma’s Offensive Line Is Gutted
The hits just keep coming for Oklahoma’s front five. Not only is Fasusi doubtful, but starting guard Eddy Pierre-Louis is also doubtful for Saturday. And it’s not just the line; starting cornerback Eli Bowen has been downgraded to out, which is a huge blow to their secondary. Backup offensive lineman Heath Ozaeta is doubtful, too. Seriously, how many more can they lose? Beyond those key players, Oklahoma has a laundry list of guys ruled out: cornerback Jacobe Johnson, wide receiver Parker Livingstone, linebacker Taylor Heim, running back Xavier Robinson, tight end Trynae Washington, and wide receiver Trell Harris are all out. That’s a brutal list for any team heading into a big game like this.
Kentucky’s Shifting Fortunes and Game-Time Decisions
On the Kentucky side, there’s actually some good news: linebacker Alex Afari is back, baby! He’s eligible and expected to play Saturday night after being listed as questionable earlier in the week. He’s off the injury report, so he’s good to go. That’s a huge boost for their defense. However, running back CJ Baxter is still listed as questionable and will be a true game-time decision, though there’s some optimism he’ll play. Defensive tackle Kellan Edwards and reserve tight end Elijah Brown remain questionable. Wide receiver Nic Anderson and cornerback Hasaan Sykes, who were probable, are now off the report entirely. But like Oklahoma, Kentucky has some significant losses, with defensive end Tyler Thomas now ruled out, along with cornerback Jaden Smith, linebacker Antwan Smith, cornerback Grant Grayton, and linebacker Tavion Wallace.
This Saturday night showdown has officially become an injury-report special. With so many key players either doubtful or ruled out for both teams, especially on Oklahoma’s offensive line, it’s going to be a battle of attrition. Who steps up is going to be the real story.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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