In a big blow to Oklahoma’s defense, head coach Brent Venables confirmed that senior standouts Danny Stutsman and Billy Bowman will miss the Armed Forces Bowl this Friday. Both players are preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft, and their absence has been expected, though it wasn’t officially confirmed until Venables made the announcement at Thursday’s pregame press conference.
Venables expressed deep gratitude for their contributions, praising their exceptional seasons and leadership in rebuilding Oklahoma’s defense. “We’re just so thankful for their All-American caliber play and everything they’ve put into this program,” he said. “Just a few years ago, we were nowhere near the standard we expect here, but those guys have been key in turning things around.”
Stutsman, who set a career-high 109 tackles this season, is now 9th in OU’s history with 376 career tackles. Meanwhile, Bowman, who grabbed two interceptions this season, has also made four defensive touchdowns in the past two years. Both have been cornerstones of a defense that’s ranked among the best in the country, allowing just 318 yards per game – the fewest since 2009.
With Stutsman and Bowman sidelined, the Sooners will rely on Kobie McKinzie and Kip Lewis to take the linebacker roles against Navy, while Peyton Bowen and Robert Spears-Jennings will fill the safety positions. This marks the first time since September 2021 that Oklahoma will play without either player in the lineup.
Venables acknowledged the team still has a long way to go, but the turnaround in just a few seasons has been remarkable, largely due to the hard work and leadership of players like Stutsman and Bowman. Now, the Sooners will have to step up and continue their strong defensive play without these two stars.
