Jay Norvell first domino to fall in Oklahoma's coaching purge
Norvell won't be the only OU coach to go this offseason. (Image: AP)
Bruce Feldman let the cat out of the bag Sunday that longtime receivers coach Jay Norvell is out at Oklahoma. It's just the first of what should be multiple casualties from Bob Stoops' staff.
(Keep in mind that this is just the first dismissal to be confirmed publicly.)
Norvell has recruited the wide receiver position as well as anyone in the country since he landed with the Sooners in 2008. So what led to his dismissal? I reckon it has something to do with what he has done with all the talent he lured to Norman.
Just six wideouts registered catches this season for the Sooners, two of whom, Jordan Smallwood and Austin Bennett, combined for just four grabs. In the last five recruiting classes, OU has signed a total of 20 receivers. Factor in that OU used another three scholarships on high-profile transfers at receiver during that five-year period, and it seems fair to say that the return on investment at the position wasn't great.
Importantly, most of the Sooner standouts at receiver under Norvell played immediately: Ryan Broyles, Kenny Stills, Sterling Shepard. Few of note emerged after spending time in the program. The lack of player development at receiver became painfully obvious late in 2014, as the passing game fell apart with Shepard sidelined.
Who fills the new opening on OU's staff will likely depend on a series of other decisions yet to be made (or, perhaps, reported). Josh Heupel's status as play caller should prove pivotal.